A new fire suppression technology is now available to the automotive industry. The Renault Group developed and patented the system, called Fireman Access. It helps firefighters quickly extinguish battery fires in just a few minutes.
Fires in EV batteries are notoriously difficult to control, often taking hours and large amounts of water to put out. Fireman Access changes this by allowing firefighters to stop a battery fire in just a few minutes.
How the System Works
The system works by placing an adhesive disc over an opening in the vehicle’s battery casing. In the event of a fire, a high-pressure water jet can knock off the disc, allowing water to reach and cool the battery cells directly. This method is significantly faster and more efficient than traditional firefighting techniques.
“Innovating to improve road safety is part of who we are at Renault,” said Luca de Meo, CEO of Renault Group.
“Fireman Access is a practical demonstration of what can be achieved by combining our expertise as a manufacturer with the skills of the men and women who keep us safe every day,” he added.
Renault has already fitted Fireman Access to all its electric and plug-in hybrid models, including vehicles from its Dacia, Alpine, and Mobilize brands. The company has also filed seven patents related to this technology.
Commitment Safety Across the Globe
By offering Fireman Access through a free licensing model, the brand is encouraging collaboration across the automotive industry. Manufacturers and parts suppliers can obtain a licence through Renault’s open platform. In return, they agree to share any improvements they make to the technology.
“I’m delighted to be making this innovation freely available, because when it comes to a subject like safety, we need to break down all the barriers. This move is also in keeping with the commitment made alongside the United Nations, to make mobility safer, all over the world,” Mr de Meo said.
This initiative is part of Renault’s broader commitment to road safety. The company works closely with the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety and is participating in the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Marrakech. Renault’s efforts also extend to educational programs, including raising awareness of road safety in schools.
A Holistic Approach to Safety
Renault’s road safety strategy, called ‘Human First’, focuses on preventing, correcting, protecting, and rescuing. The company has spent over 50 years studying road accidents and developing new safety technologies. This includes advanced driver assistance systems, post-crash safety features, and AI-powered solutions like the ‘Safety Coach’ and ‘Safety Score’.
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