In light of the drive to decarbonize all modes of transport, the number of new energy vehicles has been on the rise. Electric vehicles (EVs) are projected to match the sales of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles by 2030, and to surpass them by 2040.
Battery electric vehicles are usually fitted with a lithium-ion traction battery and despite the inherently safe design of EVs thermal runaway may occur if a battery is abused, e.g. by heat, mechanical damage or overcharge. Thermal runaway is when the cell undergoes an unstable chemical reaction that is difficult to bring under control and where reignition often occurs. Clearly this is a major concern for carriers and their insurers.
IUMI published a recommendations and best practice paper in September 2023 which includes technical information about EVs as well as best practice for the safe transport of EVs on board PCTCs and roro vessels. IUMI will continue to be involved in the IMO’s work to develop appropriate safety measures to address this new risk.
Read our full update:
Policy Agenda January 2025 – Transport of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
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