Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer just a glimpse of the future—they’re actively shaping it. As a zero-emission alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars, EVs are rapidly gaining traction worldwide. With their quiet operation, powerful acceleration, and most importantly, zero CO2 emissions, they hold the potential to pave the way for a sustainable society.
However, the technology driving this promising future still faces significant challenges, particularly regarding safety. As EV adoption increases, reports of catastrophic fires have also risen, highlighting the risks that need to be addressed.
The Risks of EV Fires: A Growing Concern
At the heart of electric vehicles are lithium-ion batteries, which are prized for their high performance and lightweight nature. However, these same attributes also carry substantial risks. One of the most dangerous phenomena associated with these batteries is known as “thermal runaway.” This occurs when the battery overheats or is subjected to impact, causing it to spiral out of control, rapidly increasing in temperature and potentially catching fire.
There have been alarming incidents where EV fires have occurred suddenly, such as in underground parking garages, where the flames quickly spread to adjacent vehicles. In one such case, extinguishing the blaze took eight hours and required 110 tons of water. These types of fires are incredibly difficult to control once they start, sometimes leading to devastating consequences.
Another example comes from a fire in a South Korean factory, where 35,000 lithium-ion batteries exploded in quick succession, engulfing the entire facility in flames. This fire, too, was triggered by thermal runaway, resulting in significant damage before it was finally brought under control.
Understanding Battery Technology and the Promise of Solid-State Batteries
These fire incidents can be traced back to the internal structure of lithium-ion batteries. These batteries consist of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte that connects them, which is typically a volatile liquid. This liquid electrolyte is highly flammable, especially when overheated, significantly increasing the risk of fires.
Enter the next-generation “solid-state battery.” Unlike lithium-ion batteries, all components in solid-state batteries are made of solid materials. One of the key benefits of this design is the use of a solid electrolyte, which drastically reduces the risk of thermal runaway.
Solid-state batteries can maintain stable performance up to 170 degrees Celsius and are far less prone to catching fire or exploding. Additionally, they offer superior durability, potentially extending the lifespan of the battery. If solid-state battery technology becomes widely available, it could lead to a dramatic improvement in the safety of electric vehicles.
A New Future with Solid-State Batteries
The development of solid-state batteries is progressing rapidly, with major companies like Samsung and LG aiming for mass production by 2027 or 2030. Market research forecasts that the solid-state battery market will grow from around $278 million in 2025 to approximately $1.7 billion by 2030.
Despite this optimism, challenges remain. The high cost of production and technical hurdles mean that widespread adoption may take time. However, with government support and ongoing technological advancements, the mass adoption of safe, solid-state battery-powered electric vehicles is likely to become a reality, promising a brighter future for all.
Solid-state batteries are poised to revolutionize the future of electric vehicles. The potential of this new technology is immense, with the power to significantly alter our daily lives. As we look ahead, the continued development and market trends surrounding this technology will be crucial to watch.
Atsushi's Life in Korea 