Australia's commercial fleets are electrifying at pace. From delivery vans to government vehicles to rideshare operators, the shift to electric is driven by economics, regulation, and environmental commitment. But as fleets make this transition, they introduce a fire risk profile that differs fundamentally from petrol and diesel — one that requires purpose-built safety protocols and equipment.

What Is Different About EV Fire Risk in Fleets?

Fleet operations amplify individual-level EV fire risks. Vehicles charge simultaneously in shared depots. Batteries are subject to heavy daily cycling that accelerates degradation. When an incident occurs in a commercial depot — potentially at night, in an enclosed space, with multiple vehicles — the consequences can be severe.

Charging Depot Risk

A depot with 20 EVs charging simultaneously is a very different fire risk from a single vehicle charging at home. Thermal events in enclosed depot environments can involve multiple vehicles before the fire is detected. Automated suppression systems in standard depots are not calibrated for lithium-ion battery fires — and EV-specific response equipment is often absent.

Driver-Level Risk

Drivers operating EVs in the field need to understand what to do if their vehicle begins showing signs of battery distress. A driver who opens the bonnet of a smoking EV to investigate is in significant danger. Clear, trained protocols are essential.

Building Your Fleet EV Fire Safety Program

Step 1: Risk Assessment

Document the number and type of EVs in your fleet. Map charging locations — depot-based and field-based. Identify enclosed or semi-enclosed charging environments. Assess the proximity of charging infrastructure to flammable materials, building structures, and personnel.

Step 2: Equipment Specification

For each depot charging area, specify EV fire blankets appropriate to the vehicle type and EV-specific extinguishers. For field operations, consider whether drivers should carry a compact EV extinguisher — particularly for vehicles operating in remote areas where emergency response times are extended.

Step 3: Driver Training

Train all EV drivers on: early warning signs of battery distress; the correct response protocol (evacuate, call 000, do not open the bonnet); and how to deploy EV fire equipment if trained and safe to do so.

Step 4: Incident Response Plan

Develop a written EV fire incident response plan covering who is responsible for what, communication protocols from driver to emergency services, and post-incident vehicle management. A vehicle involved in a thermal event should not be immediately returned to the fleet.

Battery Servicing and End-of-Life Management

Fleet operations involve battery servicing, removal, and replacement at a much higher rate than private ownership. Damaged, degraded, or recalled batteries must be safely stored and transported using a lithium-ion containment bag. Never transport a suspected damaged battery in the passenger or cargo area without containment. Visit our Fleet EV Fire Safety page to discuss your fleet's specific requirements.