NTSB Describes Effort to Douse Tesla Semi Fire

California firefighters faced significant challenges when they responded to a Tesla Semi truck fire following an accident on Interstate 80. The truck’s lithium-ion battery ignited after the vehicle veered off the road and collided with a tree, leading to a fire that reached temperatures of 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Firefighters reportedly used around 50,000 gallons of water and aerial fire retardants to combat the flames and prevent further risks, ultimately keeping the vehicle cool for approximately 15 hours before it could be safely recovered. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently investigating the incident and plans to assess fire risks associated with large lithium-ion batteries, especially given that the truck's automated driving systems were not engaged during the crash. Authorities have monitored the truck for an entire day post-recovery, ensuring that the battery did not reignite. The NTSB has raised concerns regarding the protocols in place for first responders handling high-voltage battery fires, highlighting previous findings that manufacturers' guidelines were insufficient. They advocate for specific response guides and improved storage practices for damaged batteries. Since Tesla began production of the Semi in December 2022, issues related to its battery systems and their fire risk have become a point of focused scrutiny. In transportation terms, the incident underscores the need for enhanced safety standards and emergency response strategies tailored to the unique challenges posed by electric vehicle technologies. As the industry shifts increasingly toward electric vehicles, manufacturers should prioritize robust designs and user-friendly guidelines for emergency situations. This not only applies to firefighting but should also extend to roadside assistance and recovery efforts, highlighting the importance of comprehensive training for emergency responders in dealing with electric vehicle incidents.