Deadly ferry fire prompts shipping firm to ban EVs, hybrid cars

National

CITING fire, explosion and battery-related hazards, Montenegro Shipping Lines Inc. has banned electric and hybrid vehicles from its vessels following the deadly MV June Aster incident off Coron, Palawan.

The domestic shipping company issued a memorandum directing all vessel masters to immediately prohibit the boarding or carriage of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), whether as passenger vehicles or cargo.

“Effective immediately, all masters are hereby instructed not to allow any electric vehicle (EV) or hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) to be boarded or carried onboard our vessels whether for passenger or cargo carriage,” the memorandum said, as quoted by Philstar.

The directive came after an initial investigation into the June Aster fire indicated that the explosion and blaze may have originated from an electric vehicle.

The initial probe also determined that the fire started in the vessel’s cargo hold. Witnesses told investigators they heard an explosion before smoke and flames were seen.

Montenegro Shipping Lines said the ban was being imposed as a preventive safety measure to reduce the risks of fire, explosion, thermal runaway and other potential hazards associated with EV and hybrid vehicle batteries during vessel operations.

The MV June Aster was reportedly carrying five motorcycles, an electric car, a forklift, a pickup van and essential goods, including rice and eggs, when the incident occurred.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported 77 fatalities, 43 survivors and eight people missing following the tragedy.

The PCG has reactivated its Maritime Safety Investigation and Maritime Crime Investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and establish who may be held liable.(MyTVCebu)