Renault recently showcased the Megane E-Tech Electric at the IAA Munich Show. While the specs are nothing out of ordinary, the safety features of this electric car have caught a lot of attention. The Fireman Access feature is a result of the partnership between Renault Group and French Firefighters that have been ongoing for over a decade.
The EV packs special access to the battery for rescue teams. The company claims the feature will enable the first responders to put out a battery fire in a few minutes, compared with between one and three hours for most EV battery fires. The EV also has a switch placed under the rear bench that lets rescue teams disconnect the battery.
Innovative method can save lives
Additionally, Renault has placed a QR code on the windscreen, which will allow rescue teams to scan the code and see details about the car’s structure. They will also be able to find out the locations of the battery and airbags along with information about where it’s safe to cut into the car. The company says the information will come in handy for first responders to save around 15 minutes when attempting to free a crash victim and save many lives.
The move seems smart and other EV makers should also adopt this method to make it easier for first responders. The latest version of the Megane line is made on the company’s CMF-EV platform. The EV comes in two options: a base model with 130 horsepower and a more advanced alternative with 215 hp and 221 pound-feet of torque.
EV fires are a concern
Speaking of EV fires, several carmakers had to recall their electric cars as they posed a risk of catching fire unexpectedly while charging inside owner’s garages. It’s a hurdle for a technology that is meant to reduce carbon combustion due to public roadways.
Though, to be clear, electric cars are mostly safe and much better for the Earth’s environment. When EVs catch fire, they can be extremely difficult to put out. A similar pattern has also been seen with many Tesla crashes in the past.
