Regulatory aspects of Electric Vehicles and Fire in Maritime RoRo/RoPax Transports

This pre-study research paper explores the regulatory aspects of electric vehicles in maritime RoRo/RoPax transports, focusing on the risks and effects of electric vehicle fires on board ships. The study highlights concern about the increased risk of transporting electric vehicles and examines various incidents of fires in electric vehicles. The paper discusses the regulatory initiatives taken on different levels and identifies different perceptions of risk and impacts among stakeholders. The study indicates a need for legal tools to deal with the risks and effects of electric vehicles fires and highlights the lack of effective equipment and specific training requirements for handling electric vehicle fires on board vessels. The regulatory standards, including the SOLAS convention and its regulations, are discussed in terms of fire protection measures, but it is noted that these do not specifically address the risks and regulatory needs related to electric vehicles. The research indicates a potential for further investigation into the regulatory aspects and emphasizes the importance of addressing the unique challenges posed by transporting electric vehicles on ships.

Authors
Monica Lundh, Division of Maritime Studies, Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences, at Chalmers University of Technology

Lars-Göran Malmberg, Ocean Law Group, Department of Law, School of Business, Economics and Law at the University of Gothenburg

Claes Martinson, Ocean Law Group, Department of Law, School of Business, Economics and Law at the University of Gothenburg

Assistant: Natasha Mattsson Larsson, Department of Law, School of Business, Economics and Law at the University of Gothenburg