IONIQ 5 N Fire: Why EV Safety Literacy is Non-Negotiable

A recent fire incident involving the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N in Medan on January 7, 2025, has reignited public debate over the safety of electric vehicles. Although the vehicle was parked, the discussion has often been based more on assumptions than on technical data. EVSafe Indonesia emphasizes the importance of factual analysis for such incidents, arguing that widespread generalizations about EV batteries can be misleading. As observed in this case, the fire hazard might be linked to the low-voltage system and electronic components rather than the battery itself. For electric vehicles, implementing safety literacy and standards based on factual data is crucial to ensure readiness for potential risks. Without clear standards and competencies in EV maintenance, the transition to electric transport could pose safety issues. This requires regulation and collaboration from all stakeholders — from vehicle owners to service technicians.