South Korea Accelerates EV Battery Certification Program Amid Safety Concerns

South Korea's government and ruling party agreed to expedite an electric vehicle battery certification program to address public safety concerns following a series of EV fires. They will also require automakers to identify battery manufacturers. Multiple safety measures will be implemented, including improved fire equipment regulations.

The South Korean government and its ruling party have decided to fast-track an electric vehicle (EV) battery certification program, party officials announced on Sunday. This move comes amid rising public safety concerns due to several recent EV fires.

Starting in October, the government will launch the certification scheme ahead of schedule to ensure the safety of EV batteries, according to Han Zeea, a spokesperson for the People Power Party. Additionally, automakers in South Korea will be mandated to disclose the batteries used in their electric vehicles. This decision follows a major fire on August 1 involving a Mercedes-Benz EV, which heightened public anxiety and damaged hundreds of cars.

While South Korean battery manufacturers have not opposed this initiative, industry experts caution that identifying battery brands may not necessarily improve safety due to the lack of conclusive data. Further measures include revising fire equipment rules for EV charging stations and enhancing systems to prevent battery overcharging.

(With inputs from agencies.)