South Korea Urges Transparency Over EV Battery Makers Amid Fire Safety Concerns

South Korea is pressing automakers to reveal their EV battery manufacturers after a fire involving a Mercedes-Benz EV. While experts agree on the need for transparency, there's limited data on which battery brands are riskier. Highlights include South Korea's unique challenges with EV fires and preventive measures suggested.

South Korea is urging automakers in the country to disclose the manufacturers of batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs) as authorities attempt to mitigate fears following a recent fire in an underground parking lot that took eight hours to control.

Experts argue that more transparency regarding battery makers could offer consumers better choices, although there is a lack of conclusive data on which brands are more fire-prone. Nevertheless, the call for disclosure comes after a significant fire involving a Mercedes-Benz EV using Farasis Energy's batteries, affecting hundreds of cars and displacing residents from nearby apartments.

Data suggests that EV fires are less frequent than those involving gasoline or hybrid cars, but they are harder to extinguish due to the nature of lithium-ion batteries. South Korea's high-density living conditions further exacerbate these risks. Companies like Hyundai and Volkswagen are beginning to identify their battery suppliers, yet experts call for stricter safety measures and better battery management systems to address the issue comprehensively.

(With inputs from agencies.)