Without knowing the safety of the newer upcoming Battery technology from GM what we have today is Knowledge based upon experience. What we know:
These EV's can experience multiple classes of fires:
Class A (tires, fabrics, plastics).
Class B (fuel).
Class C (lithium-ion batteries in hybrid and electric cars).
Class D (magnesium, titanium, aluminum and lithium).
Electric vehicle fires can exceed 5,000 F. Applying water or foam may cause a violent flare-up as the water molecules separate into explosive hydrogen and oxygen gases.
There are several common risks for first responders associated with electric vehicle fires:
Electrical shock (up to 400 volts).
Extremely high temperatures and thermal runaway.
Toxic fumes.
Lithium burns (respiratory and skin reactions).
Toxic runoff.
Reignition up to 24 hours after initial extinguishment.
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