Renault Group introduced Fireman Access — a new system to extinguish EV battery fires in minutes — and will offer the technology free to other automakers.
The system uses a specialized adhesive disc placed over a pre-cut opening in the battery casing. When firefighters direct a standard fire hose at the disc, it detaches to allow water to reach all battery cells directly.
This direct-access approach requires up to 90% less water than current methods while matching typical combustion engine fire response times.
“Fireman Access is a practical demonstration of what can be achieved by combining our expertise as a manufacturer with the skills of the men and women who keep us safe every day,” said Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo. “Today, I’m delighted to be making this innovation freely available, because when it comes to a subject like safety, we need to break down all the barriers.”
The innovation addresses key challenges with EV fires:
- Battery fires can reignite hours or days after appearing extinguished
- Traditional firefighting methods require extensive water usage
- Toxic fumes pose risks to first responders
Renault developed Fireman Access through ongoing collaboration with emergency services. The company has already implemented the system across its electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle lineup.
By making the patents freely available, Renault aims to establish a new safety standard for managing EV battery fires across the automotive industry.
