Global electric vehicle (EV) sales have been surging, with 10 million sold in 2022 and 35% predicted growth by the end of this year.^[1] Furthermore, rising EV adoption and increased lithium-ion (li-ion) battery production raise safety concerns.

Li-ion batteries that power EVs can lead to dangerous “thermal runaway” incidents causing intense and prolonged electrical fires. Thus, workers assembling batteries face risks like hand injuries, exposure to chemical hazards, and potential electrocution. A focus on safety is crucial in this EV boom.

Honeywell has a depth of ready-now solutions to address safety concerns across the spectrum of people involved in EV manufacturing, transport, and use. Particularly, it aims to not only protect individuals and assets but also to help detect the risk of battery fires sooner.

“Electric vehicles are pivotal for a sustainable future of transportation,” said Victor Verissimo, general manager of electrification for Honeywell Sensing and Safety Technologies. Furthermore, Verissimo said, “However, sustainability can’t compromise safety. Honeywell’s portfolio of solutions helps make the production and operation of EVs safer for all involved, helping to play a crucial role in making sustainable travel a reality.”

Safety for EV Operators

When integrated into EV battery packs, Honeywell’s battery safety sensors detect thermal runaway risks. Thus, enabling the warning of passengers and allowing EV manufacturers to meet international battery fire safety standards. Through a strategic alliance with Nexceris, developer of Li-ion Tamer lithium-ion gas detection solutions, Honeywell is developing sensors to detect earlier thermal runaway indicators in EV batteries. Moreover, this early intervention can help avoid costly property damage or injury to drivers.

Safety in Gigafactories

The demand for EVs is giving rise to more gigafactories—massive battery and electric vehicle factories—and more manufacturing jobs. Furthermore, this battery assembly process poses risks of hand and eye injuries, exposure to toxic and flammable chemicals, electrocution, and “arc flash.” Particularly, when electric current leaves its intended path and travels through the air or to the ground.

Honeywell offers comprehensive personal protective equipment (PPE), electrical safety gear, and gas detection technology for high-risk areas and industries. Thus, Honeywell’s technology will keep workers in the vehicle industry safe and help mitigate the inherent risks associated with lithium-ion battery production.

Safety for First Responders

While sensors can allow for early detection of malfunctions in li-ion batteries, they cannot yet prevent them altogether. In scenarios when a li-ion battery fire does occur, it is necessary for first-responders to be well equipped to fight these fast-burning, incredibly hot flames. Honeywell provides fire and emergency services departments the gear needed to effectively combat the dangerous conditions brought on by li-ion battery fires.

Note:

^[1] IEA, Demand for electric cars is booming, with sales expected to leap 35% this year after a record-breaking 2022, April 26, 2023 [Accessed August 7, 2023]