Kenya, along with other countries, is getting ready for the 2035 electric mobility transition, with a focus on the shift from traditional fuel-powered vehicles to battery-powered electric cars. One of the major issues concerning electric vehicles is the safety risk associated with battery fires, particularly due to the thermal runaway process that can lead to devastating consequences for drivers and property.
International car manufacturers like Tesla, Chevrolet, Hyundai, and Ford have faced criticism over reported battery fires, highlighting the risks associated with lithium batteries. Despite being safe under normal conditions, lithium-ion and lithium-metal cells can be prone to thermal runaway, a phenomenon where battery cell temperature and pressure rapidly increase, releasing flammable gas and posing a fire hazard when the batteries are overcharged, damaged, or exposed to water.
In response to these concerns, companies in the Kenyan e-mobility sector are implementing safety measures to mitigate the risk of fires. For example, Arc Ride, an electric battery swapping company, utilizes swapping cabinets that automatically disconnect batteries when fully charged to prevent overcharging and potential risks. Additionally, advancements in battery technology, such as the use of lithium iron phosphate batteries, are being explored for their reduced risk of combustion and thermal runaway compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Safety features like temperature and current control, along with extensive life testing, are being emphasized by companies like Roam to ensure the safe performance of batteries over time.