Download PDF version

ClassNK granted its ‘AFVC(FD)(EV)’ notation to ‘POSITIVE CHALLENGER’, a car carrier operated by EASTERN CAR LINER, LTD. and managed by ECL Shipmanagement Limited, for vessels equipped with additional firefighting measures for transporting electric vehicles (EVs). 

Shipping companies are implementing various measures to address EV fires, which raise concerns due to difficulties in extinguishing and the risk of re-ignition.

Characteristics of EV fires

To support these efforts, ClassNK has issued the ‘Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles'

To support these efforts, ClassNK has issued the ‘Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles'. These guidelines explain the characteristics of EV fires and provide guidance on how to respond, while also setting out five types of ‘AFVC’ notations according to various safety measures.

The FD notation, one of the five types, is for vessels adopting effective measures for the early detection of vehicle abnormalities and fires, as well as the early identification of vehicles on fire.

The ‘POSITIVE CHALLENGER’ has three anomaly detection functions using AI cameras: smoke detection, heat detection, and rapid temperature rise detection. 

Safe transportation of EVs

If abnormalities, such as the generation of flammable gas or a rise in vehicle body temperature are detected, the system can alert the crew. ClassNK evaluated that these features enable the identification of vehicles on fire at an earlier stage compared to conventional smoke detectors.

ClassNK is committed to continuing its efforts to contribute to the safe transportation of EVs by establishing and conducting appropriate standards and evaluations.

Download PDF version Download PDF version

In case you missed it

Nor-Shipping 2025: Pioneering maritime innovations revealed
Nor-Shipping 2025: Pioneering maritime innovations revealed

Nor-Shipping 2025, taking place in Oslo and Lillestrøm 2-6 June, has announced the shortlists for two of its most coveted accolades, the Next Generation Ship Award and the O...

How can maritime companies maximise return on investment (ROI)?
How can maritime companies maximise return on investment (ROI)?

Achieving optimal return on investment (ROI) for a maritime company involves a strategic combination of operational efficiency, revenue enhancement, cost control, careful financial...

Advancing shipbuilding: ABS insights from MIT Symposium
Advancing shipbuilding: ABS insights from MIT Symposium

ABS Chairman and Chief Executive Christopher J. Wiernicki spoke about the application of advanced strategies to improve shipbuilding competitiveness at the Manufacturing at Massach...

vfd