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The challenge

Lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles pose serious fire risks during transport, especially at sea. Thermal runaway, triggered by damage or overheating, can lead to fires or explosions in confined environments, threatening crew, cargo, and vessels. Traditional firefighting methods are often reactive, water-intensive, and not designed for these specific hazards.

The innovation

Fire Containers Ltd has developed two patented solutions:

• Fire Safety Containment Unit (FSCU): A sealed unit for transporting lithium-ion batteries, featuring integrated fire detection, high-pressure water mist suppression, and onboard water recirculation.
• Electric Vehicle Containment Unit (EVCU): A mobile unit for recovering and transporting EVs after fire incidents, using misting to cool and suppress flames without submerging battery packs.

Both units detect fires early, contain them quickly, and prevent reignition - minimising water use and environmental impact.

How it works

Developed with input from fire services, engineers, and recovery teams, the EVCU provides a safe, mobile solution for managing EV fire incidents. The FSCU extends this protection to lithium-ion battery transport, especially in sea freight. Both systems use steam-based suppression and recirculating water to control fires efficiently and safely, without relying on submersion or excessive water use.

Case study

The EVCU is actively deployed across the UK and has become a trusted tool for first responders. It has successfully contained EV fires post-accident, preventing reignition and enabling safe transport. The FSCU has been adopted for secure battery shipping, helping prevent onboard fires and ensuring crew safety. Both units have reduced emergency response times, improved containment reliability, and eliminated the need for high-volume water tactics.

Potential impact

As global use of lithium-ion batteries grows, so do the risks. The FSCU and EVCU offer scalable, proactive solutions for logistics providers, ports, and emergency services. They:

• Enhance fire safety during transport and recovery
• Reduce operational downtime and environmental hazards
• Support compliance with evolving safety standards
• Protect lives, infrastructure, and cargo