VOGT-CTE - WE DELIVER FLAME RETARDANTS
The increasing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles, solar systems, and many electronic devices brings not only technological advancements but also new challenges in fire safety.
Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries pose unique risks, as conventional fire extinguishers designed for standard fire types are often not adequately effective.
This can delay extinguishment and significantly increase the extent of damage and danger. In response to this issue, “FlameBlock Lithium Black” is introduced as an innovative safety solution specifically developed for lithium-ion battery fires.
THE-FIRELAB - FLAME RETARDANTS
THE-FIRELAB
HYDRA-X
High-performance firefighting water additive for versatile use.
THE-FIRELAB
LITHIUM-BLACK
Lithium Black quickly extinguishes and controls lithium-ion battery fires
THE-FIRELAB
TITAN-ATOM
Fire protection system for the suppression of fires in electrical systems
THE-FIRELAB
MASTIC
High-performance, fire-resistant paste that creates fire protection barriers
THE-FIRELAB
FABRIC-SHIELD
Fabric Shield is an innovative, fire-retardant solution for fabric treatment.
THE-FIRELAB
NO-PANIC
No-Panic is a drop-in solution for combating pan and grease fires
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OUR BUSINESS AREAS
Vogt-CTE
Rescue
Business area for products related to rescue and emergency services
Vogt-CTE
Defense
Business field for products related to defense and security
Vogt-CTE
Energy
Business sector for products related to mobile power supply
Vogt-CTE Fire Retardants
Business sector for fire protection and fire safety products
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The Growing Threat of Electric Vehicle Fires
1. Why Electric Vehicle Fires Are Different
At the center of the issue is the lithium-ion battery. If it suffers damage, an internal defect, or extreme overheating, a phenomenon known as Thermal Runaway can occur. This leads to one battery cell overheating and triggering a chain reaction in neighboring cells. The consequences are:
- Extremely high temperatures
- Self-reinforcing reactions within the battery pack
- Difficult control and prolonged fire duration
- Potential reignition even hours or days later
Compared to traditional vehicle fires, these incidents unfold more intensely and are technically more complex.
2. Special Challenges in Emergency Situations
Electric vehicle fires present new challenges for firefighters and operators:
- High Cooling Demand: Large amounts of water are often required to sufficiently cool the battery.
- Re-ignition Risk: Even after successful extinguishment, the system can reignite.
- Toxic Smoke Gases: Dangerous gases can form, requiring special protective measures.
- Prolonged Intervention Times: Monitoring after the fire may take many hours.
Additionally, conventional extinguishing methods are not always sufficient, as the fire does not only burn on the surface but can also start within the battery module.
3. Risks to Infrastructure and Economy
The danger affects not only individual vehicles but also:
- Parking garages
- Fleet parking spaces
- Charging zones
- Logistics centers
- Production facilities
A single battery incident can cause significant smoke gas exposure and render entire areas unusable. Production halts, property damage, and operational disruptions can quickly lead to substantial economic losses.
4. Importance of Prevention and Fire Protection Concepts
With the increasing prevalence of electric mobility, an adapted safety concept becomes essential. This includes:
- Early detection systems
- Fire compartment formation
- Thermal barriers
- Controlled smoke ventilation
- Special extinguishing strategies for lithium-ion fires
The aim is to control an emerging fire as early as possible, prevent its spread, and minimize consequential damage.
Electric vehicles are an essential part of sustainable mobility. At the same time, they bring new fire scenarios that require a shift in preventive fire protection. Those who plan charging infrastructure, store vehicles, or use them commercially should understand the specifics of lithium-ion fires and integrate appropriate protective measures early on.
Is your company prepared for electric vehicle fires?
| Area | Verification Question | Yes | No | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Risk Assessment | Has a specific risk analysis for electric vehicles been conducted? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Are charging zones, parking areas, workshops, and storage areas assessed? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Insurance & Liability | Is the risk of EV and lithium battery fires coordinated with the insurer? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Are coverage amounts for fire and business interruption sufficient? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Have special insurance requirements been implemented? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Location & Infrastructure | Are there defined charging areas with sufficient distance? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Are fire sections or structural separations present? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Are flammable materials kept away from charging and parking areas? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Charging Infrastructure | Are certified and regularly maintained charging systems used? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Is there monitoring of charging processes (temperature, errors, load)? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Early Detection | Are smoke, heat, or gas detectors installed? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Is there monitoring for fleets or larger charging units? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Fire Prevention Measures | Are suitable extinguishing agents for lithium ion fires available? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Are special fire blankets for electric vehicles available? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Are there mobile extinguishing systems or cooling options? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Are employees trained in the use of fire blankets? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Smoke Management | Is there a concept for controlled smoke exhaust? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Are sensitive production or storage areas protected? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Organization & Training | Is there an emergency plan specifically for EV fires? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Are regular evacuation and fire protection drills conducted? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Are clear responsibilities defined in case of emergency? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Coordination with Authorities | Is the fire department informed about EV locations and charging infrastructure? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Are operational and shutdown plans for high-voltage vehicles available? | ☐ | ☐ | ||
| Aftercare & Restarting | Is there a concept for monitoring for reignition? | ☐ | ☐ | |
| Is there a procedure for smoke gas cleaning and re-release defined? | ☐ | ☐ |
- Vogt-CTE GmbH
- Erlenauweg 17
- CH 3110 Münsingen
- +41 33 223 72 12
- info@vogt-cte.com
- VAT CH - CHE-251.716.630 MWST
- UID CH - CHE-251.716.630
- CH ID - CH-036-4065213-9
- EORI - DE684075747272454
- ZAZ - 17790-0 Vogt-CTE GmbH
WE DELIVER INNOVATIVE FIRE EXTINGUISHING AGENTS
At Vogt-CTE, we provide our European trading partners access to unique innovations in fire extinguishing technology. Our solutions facilitate firefighting efforts, making them faster, safer, and less resource-intensive. The products we represent are highly specialized, field-tested, and make a real difference – saving lives every day. We don’t just bring products to market; we deliver progress. Together with our partners, we ensure these innovations reach those who need them most: those on the front lines conducting rescue operations.
