Thoughts on Helping Businesses Navigate the EV Transition and Battery Safety

As I’ve been digging into the recent report from the Joint Standing Committee on Road Safety " Read the report here ", it’s become clear to me that businesses face a unique opportunity—and responsibility—as they adopt electric vehicles (EVs) and embrace more sustainable practices. The benefits of transitioning to EVs are undeniable, but with this shift comes a set of challenges that I believe we need to address head-on, especially when it comes to battery safety and regulations.

The Reality of Fire Risks in EVs and PMDs

One of the main concerns raised in the report is the risk of battery fires. Now, contrary to what some may think, electric vehicles are actually much safer than traditional petrol or diesel cars when it comes to fire hazards. The stats don’t lie—EVs are 80 times less likely to catch fire than internal combustion engine vehicles. But here’s the catch: when an EV does catch fire, the situation can become far more severe, requiring between three and five hours to fully extinguish the flames compared to under 30 minutes for a petrol car fire.

It’s also worth mentioning that personal mobility devices (PMDs), like e-bikes and e-scooters, are actually more prone to fire risks than EVs. This is often because of defective or poor-quality batteries. As more Aussies adopt these devices, either for deliveries or personal use, this is something they need to be aware of.

Regulatory Gaps: New vs. Converted EVs

What struck me as particularly interesting—and concerning—is the regulatory gap between new EVs and those converted from traditional petrol or diesel engines. While new electric vehicles in Australia are heavily regulated and built to meet strict safety standards, the same can’t be said for converted EVs. These vehicles, which are modified to run on electric power, aren’t held to the same rigorous safety standards, meaning businesses could be unknowingly putting themselves at risk if they rely on these vehicles.

I believe this is an area where businesses need to be proactive. If you’re transitioning your fleet to electric, make sure the vehicles you’re using meet the highest safety standards, whether they’re new or converted. The report suggests tightening these regulations, and I couldn’t agree more. As a side-note, businesses like Australian Electric Vehicle Specialists are taking the conversions to the next level with OEM like conversions for passenger and light commercial vehicles.

Emergency Responders at Risk

Another point in the report that I feel businesses need to consider is the safety of emergency responders. When an EV battery catches fire, it’s not just about putting out flames; it’s about dealing with toxic gases and the risk of the fire reigniting. The report highlights that six tow truck drivers globally have been hospitalised after secondary ignitions of EV battery fires. This is a clear sign that we need to take fire safety seriously, both for the public and for those working directly with these vehicles.

If you’re a business managing a fleet of EVs or PMDs, I think it’s crucial to ensure your teams—especially those involved in fleet management and maintenance—are trained to understand these risks and equipped with the knowledge to respond safely in an emergency.

Automotive Workers: The Unsung Heroes (as usual)

While much of the focus is on emergency services, I think it’s important not to forget about the automotive workers who are on the front lines of this transition. Mechanics and technicians working with EVs face electrical hazards and exposure to dangerous chemicals, and they need specialised training to do their jobs safely. This is another area where businesses can take the lead—by investing in proper training and safety equipment for their teams.

Public Awareness Is Key

One of the things that really stood out to me in the report was the need for greater public awareness. As more businesses embrace EVs, it’s not just about owning these vehicles; it’s about knowing how to charge and maintain them safely. The government is doing a lot to educate consumers, but I think businesses should take an active role as well.

We’re talking about the future here, and it’s not enough just to jump on the EV bandwagon. Businesses need to make sure they—and their employees—are using these vehicles safely. Whether it’s understanding the risks of overcharging a battery or knowing how to dispose of old batteries properly, education is key.

What Can Businesses Do Right Now?

If I had to sum up what businesses can do right now, I’d say it comes down to taking responsibility for your EV transition. Here’s how I think businesses can make an immediate impact:

Ensure Compliance: Whether you’re operating a fleet of EVs or installing charging stations, make sure everything you’re doing meets the latest safety standards. Work with experts who know the regulations inside and out.

Educate Your Team: This goes beyond training drivers. Everyone from fleet managers to maintenance staff needs to understand how to handle EV batteries safely. Regular safety briefings and access to the right resources are essential.

Invest in Infrastructure: If your business is serious about sustainability, now is the time to invest in charging infrastructure—whether for your fleet, employees, or customers. The more prepared you are, the smoother the transition will be.

Tap Into Renewable Energy: As businesses electrify their fleets, there’s a huge opportunity to power these vehicles with renewable energy. Pairing solar with EV chargers, for instance, could make a huge difference in lowering your carbon footprint and operational costs.

Moving Forward: My Call to Action

As we push towards a cleaner, more sustainable future, businesses have an incredible opportunity to lead by example. But this isn’t just about jumping on the latest trend—it’s about doing it safely and smartly. The transition to electric vehicles isn’t without its challenges, but with the right precautions, training, and investments in place, businesses can make this a win for everyone involved.

Ready to Drive Change?

Now is the perfect time for businesses to take the next step. Whether it’s adopting electric vehicles, upgrading your charging infrastructure, or improving energy efficiency, the time to act is today. By embracing these changes, you’re not only future-proofing your operations but also setting a new standard in corporate sustainability.

Let’s start the conversation. Reach out today and discover how we can work together to make your business more sustainable and energy-efficient for tomorrow.