A recent incident in Melbourne's Glen Waverley suburb involving a Nissan Leaf engulfed in flames has highlighted the importance of using manufacturer-approved charging equipment for electric vehicles. Fire Rescue Victoria's investigation revealed that the fire was caused by an aftermarket charging setup, not the vehicle itself.
Incident Details:
- Occurred in Glen Waverley, Melbourne
- Nissan Leaf and 10x5m garage caught fire
- Two people and a dog evacuated safely
Fire Investigation Findings:
- Cause: Travel adaptor connected to an aftermarket charging lead
- Not attributed to the Nissan Leaf itself
Damage Extent:
- Nissan Leaf destroyed
- Nearby Hyundai Genesis significantly damaged
Fire Rescue Victoria Warnings:
- Caution against using aftermarket chargers and cords
- Advise using only equipment with Regulatory Compliance Mark
- Stress importance of following manufacturer's charging instructions
Nissan Leaf Charging Equipment:
- New Leafs come with mode 3 EVSE cable
- Portable 'granny cable' not included but available as a dealer accessory
EV Fire Statistics (EV FireSafe):
- 511 verified EV battery fires globally between 2010 and June 30, 2024
- 117 occurred in underground or enclosed spaces
- Light electric vehicles (e-bikes, scooters) pose a greater fire risk than EVs
This incident serves as a crucial reminder for EV owners to prioritize safety by using manufacturer-approved charging equipment. While EV fires are relatively rare, the risks associated with aftermarket charging solutions underscore the importance of following proper charging protocols to ensure the safety of both the vehicle and its surroundings.
