A recent crash involving a Tesla Semi truck on a California freeway has prompted a federal investigation into the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. The incident, which occurred on Monday, has raised concerns about the safety of high-voltage EV batteries and their potential hazards for first responders, according to the San Antonio Express News.

The Incident

The Tesla Semi was traveling eastbound on Interstate 80 near Emigrant Gap, approximately 70 miles northeast of Sacramento, when it veered off the road and collided with trees along the right shoulder. The crash occurred around 3:15 a.m., resulting in a severe battery fire that posed significant challenges for firefighters.

Battery Fire and Response

The lithium-ion battery caught fire following the impact, reaching temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and emitting toxic fumes. Firefighters were forced to wait for the fire to burn out due to the extreme heat and hazardous conditions. The battery continued to burn into the late afternoon, with firefighters attempting to cool it down for cleanup.

“The battery caught fire, spewing toxic fumes and reaching a temperature of 1,000 degrees, forcing firefighters to wait for it to burn out,” reported the California Highway Patrol.

NTSB Investigation

The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has dispatched a team of investigators from the Office of Highway Safety to examine the wreckage and gather details about the events leading up to the collision and the subsequent fire response. The investigation will focus on the fire risks posed by lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles.

Previous NTSB Findings

This incident follows a 2021 NTSB investigation that highlighted the risks high-voltage EV battery fires pose to first responders. The agency determined that guidelines from manufacturers about dealing with such fires were inadequate and called for vehicle-specific response guides for fighting battery fires and limiting chemical thermal runaway and reignition.

Tesla Semi Background

Tesla began delivering its electric Semi trucks in December 2022, with CEO Elon Musk claiming a range of 500 miles per charge when pulling an 82,000-pound load. This incident marks one of the first major accidents involving the Tesla Semi since its commercial deployment.

EVXL’s Take

This incident underscores the importance of continued research and development in EV battery safety, particularly for larger vehicles like the Tesla Semi. As we’ve seen in our recent coverage of Tesla’s advancements, the company has made significant strides in EV technology. However, this crash highlights the need for improved safety protocols and first responder training specific to electric vehicle accidents. As the EV industry grows, addressing these safety concerns will be crucial for widespread adoption and public confidence in electric transportation.

What are your thoughts on this incident and its implications for EV safety? Share your opinions in the comments section below.

Photo courtesy of Tesla