H.R. 6948: To amend title 49, United States Code, to require each new electric and hybrid vehicle to be equipped with technology that allows the timely extinguishment of an electric vehicle battery fire, and for other purposes.

This bill proposes amendments to U.S. law aimed at enhancing safety measures for electric and hybrid vehicles, specifically concerning battery fires. Here are the main components of the bill:

Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Standards

The bill mandates that:

• Within two years of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of Transportation will be required to establish safety standards to reduce the risk of fire, explosion, and other hazards related to the batteries used in electric and hybrid vehicles.
• The Secretary will consult major vehicle manufacturers, fire protection organizations, and firefighter associations in creating these safety standards.

Minimum Safety Requirements

The newly established standards must ensure that all new electric and hybrid vehicles include:

• A first responder access technology that allows firefighters to quickly access the battery in the event of a fire.
• Technology to suppress thermal runaway, which is a dangerous condition that can occur if battery cells are damaged.
• Safeguards that delay the breach of the passenger compartment by fire, allowing time for occupants to escape safely.
• Standardized locations for the battery and access points to help firefighters quickly identify the battery's position in the vehicle.

Guidance for Firefighters

Within one year after the safety standards are published, the Secretary will also provide guidance for firefighters on how to address battery fires in electric and hybrid vehicles, which will help in their training.

Mechanical Door Releases

The bill requires that all new electric and hybrid vehicles include clearly marked mechanical door release mechanisms, allowing passengers to exit the vehicle safely if the electric system fails.

Health Impact Study

It mandates the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a study within one year on the health impacts of electric and hybrid vehicle battery fires on first responders. This study will include:

• Findings on health effects observed during such incidents.
• Input from fire safety organizations regarding risks to first responders.
• Recommendations for legislative measures to enhance the safety of electric and hybrid vehicle batteries.

Applicability

The provisions of this bill will apply to new electric and hybrid vehicles manufactured or sold in the U.S. starting two years after the final standards are established.

Relevant Companies

• TSLA - Tesla: As a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles, Tesla will need to comply with new safety standards for their battery systems, impacting their design and production processes.
• F - Ford: Ford’s development of electric models may require adjustments to meet new fire safety technologies and standards due to their hybrid and electric vehicle lines.
• GM - General Motors: Similar to Ford, GM will need to adapt to the new safety requirements for their range of electric and hybrid vehicles.
• NIO - NIO Inc.: This electric vehicle manufacturer will also be affected as they will need to implement the necessary safety measures in their vehicles to align with the new regulations.