This decision was made after a Mercedes-Benz car fire in Incheon city in early August, causing serious property damage and public safety risks.
According to the plan, this decision will be implemented in February 2025. Automakers operating in Korea are required to fully disclose information about battery manufacturers, which was previously only limited.
In addition, the Korean government also requires all fire stations nationwide to install electric vehicle fire extinguishing equipment, and implement free annual safety checks for electric vehicle batteries and installations. Install additional fire extinguishing systems in underground parking lots.
The South Korean government also introduced additional safety measures, including installing 90,000 fireproof charging poles next year and requiring the installation of sprinkler systems in underground parking lots. This will help reduce the risk of fire and explosion and provide better protection for users.
Additionally, automakers and electric vehicle battery manufacturers will need to introduce specific safety improvements to maintain consumer confidence. This is considered a big challenge but will also be an opportunity for Korea to improve safety standards and "turn around" in the electric vehicle industry.
