Official announcements from the South Korean government or regulatory bodies

Incheon EV Fire: 700 Evacuated as Mercedes-Benz with Farasis Energy Batteries Sparks Safety Measures

Aug 7, 2024, 05:11 PM

A recent fire involving an unplugged electric Mercedes-Benz sedan with batteries made by China's Farasis Energy in an underground parking garage in Incheon, South Korea, has heightened safety concerns regarding electric vehicles (EVs). The blaze, which took over eight hours to extinguish, resulted in the evacuation of more than 700 residents, damaged approximately 140 cars, caused power outages, and led to 23 hospitalizations due to smoke inhalation. The incident has sparked a debate over the safety of parking EVs in underground facilities and prompted South Korean authorities to consider new safety measures. The government is contemplating mandating EV manufacturers to disclose battery information, including the brand, to enhance transparency and safety. An emergency meeting is planned to address these concerns, as the country faces increasing pressure to ensure the safety of EVs.