EV Transport Is Growing Faster Than Maritime Safety Rules
Electric vehicle shipments are increasing at a rapid pace, but maritime regulations are not keeping up. Recent vessel fires involving EVs have shown how lithium-ion batteries can intensify onboard emergencies. As the International Maritime Organization works on new guidance, operators are facing a multi-year gap in clear regulations.
This blog explores why the risk has grown, what operators are doing today and how training, readiness and collaboration will shape the future of EV safety at sea.
Why EV Shipments Are Increasing Risk at Sea
The surge in electric vehicle transport is changing the safety landscape on board. While EVs are rarely the initial cause of a fire, lithium-ion batteries can escalate an incident dramatically once involved.
Recent high-profile examples include:
• Felicity Ace
• Morning Midas
• Freemantle Highway
Incidents like these have highlighted the need for updated firefighting, detection and response protocols.
At present, IMO regulations do not fully address EV-specific risks. Updated EV guidance is in development, but full regulations are unlikely to be in place until at least 2028. This delay leaves operators responsible for bridging the safety gap.
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How Operators Are Taking Action While Regulations Catch Up
With no comprehensive EV transport standards available yet, vessel operators are developing their own procedures. Many are already implementing proactive safety measures, including:
1. Enhanced Fire Suppression Systems
Specialised suppression systems capable of cooling lithium-ion battery fires are becoming standard upgrades on vessels that regularly carry EVs.
2. EV Screening at Booking
Operators like Serco Northlink Ferries now identify EVs early in the booking process. This allows the crew to plan stowage and ensure appropriate monitoring.
3. Improved Crew Training
Training remains the strongest defence when dealing with lithium-ion risks. Stream Marine Technical instructors are delivering scenario-based training that focuses on:
• Early battery fire detection
• Fire progression behaviour
• Use of new suppression technology
• Emergency response coordination
As Craig Smith from SMT explained, “There is no silver bullet, but new procedures and drills are already making a real impact.”
4. Knowledge Sharing Across the Industry
With formal guidance still evolving, operators are relying on workshops, webinars and cross-company communication to share what actually works at sea.
At an SMT-hosted seminar, John Garner of JG Maritime Solutions emphasised:
“The challenge lies in bridging the gap through proactive compliance, operational readiness and crew competency.”
Why Collaboration Matters More Than Ever
Until updated IMO regulations arrive, industry-wide cooperation will remain essential. Operators, regulators and EV manufacturers must align on:
• Common fire safety standards
• Battery handling best practice
• Response protocols
• Training consistency
• Incident reporting and learning loops
Panellists across the webinar agreed that the industry cannot afford to wait for regulators alone. Operators have a shared responsibility to prepare crews, invest in the right technology and shape the future of EV safety together.
FAQs: EV Transport and Maritime Safety
Are EVs more dangerous to transport than petrol or diesel cars?
Not inherently. EVs are rarely the cause of a fire, but lithium-ion batteries can escalate the intensity and duration of a fire once involved.
What makes lithium-ion battery fires so challenging?
Thermal runaway can cause rapid temperature escalation and re-ignition, meaning traditional suppression methods are often not effective on their own.
Will the IMO introduce EV-specific regulations?
Yes, but comprehensive guidance is not expected until around 2028. Interim safety advice is still evolving.
What can vessel operators do today?
Improve crew training, upgrade suppression systems, screen EVs at booking and participate in industry knowledge-sharing sessions.
Can crews fully extinguish a thermal runaway event?
Crews can control and contain the event, but complete extinguishment is difficult. The priority is containment, cooling and preventing spread.
How can SMT help operators prepare?
Stream Marine Training and Stream Marine Technical deliver EV firefighting training, emergency response, and specialist courses for maritime professionals handling new energy technologies.
