New cell-level fire extinguishing system targets thermal runaway prevention
Hyundai Mobis has reported the development of new technology designed to prevent thermal runaway in electric vehicle batteries.
The South Korea-based automotive supplier explained that its system extinguishes fire at the battery cell level by spraying an agent as soon as combustion is detected.
The technology marks the first approach focused on blocking heat transfer to adjacent cells, rather than simply delaying ignition.
Hyundai Mobis stated that its approach contrasts with previous designs which rely on heat-resistant materials to delay ignition for regulatory minimums.
International standards in regions such as Europe, China, and India currently require thermal runaway to be delayed for at least five minutes.
The company said that its battery system assembly (BSA) is designed to meet these evolving global regulatory trends.
Hyundai Mobis system integrates sensors and automated fire suppression logic
According to Hyundai Mobis, the BSA includes a battery management system (BMS), integrated fire suppression hardware, and software to coordinate responses.
The company explained that the software uses real-time sensor data to monitor temperature, voltage, and internal pressure.
Based on these readings, the system identifies abnormal conditions and pinpoints where the fire extinguishing agent needs to be deployed.
Hyundai Mobis stated that the suppression device then activates to prevent further heat transfer between battery cells.
The firm added that its decision-making algorithm includes built-in redundancy and layered safety mechanisms to maintain reliable operation.
Cooling agent used is five times stronger than domestic extinguishers
Hyundai Mobis said the battery system uses a specialised fire extinguishing agent with a capacity five times larger than a standard 3.3 kilogram home extinguisher.
The company described the agent as offering strong cooling, electrical insulation, and permeability characteristics.
It also stated that the agent is non-toxic and environmentally safe.
Hyundai Mobis confirmed that it has applied for three patents related to the battery case, extinguishing device, and integrated piping for high-pressure spraying.
Material innovation supports wider battery safety goals
Hyundai Mobis reported that it has also developed a new material to reduce battery overheating.
The component, known as a pulsating heat pipe, is made from aluminium alloy and refrigerant.
Placed between battery cells, the pipe lowers the internal temperature during high-load conditions such as fast charging.
The company said this system will support more stable thermal management during real-world operation.
Park Yong Jun, Vice President, Battery System R&D Group, Hyundai Mobis, said: “As large electric vehicles with improved driving range appear, the safety standards for battery systems are becoming more stringent.
“We will integrate hardware and software to develop advanced battery systems that meet and exceed global standards, and introduce them to the global market.”
Hyundai Mobis develops thermal runaway prevention system for EV batteries: Summary
Hyundai Mobis has announced the development of a new fire suppression system for EV batteries.
The technology activates at the cell level to prevent heat transfer that causes thermal runaway.
The system uses sensors to monitor battery conditions in real time.
Automated logic triggers fire extinguishing precisely where abnormal heat or pressure is detected.
The agent used is five times the capacity of a standard home extinguisher.
Hyundai Mobis said the agent is safe for both people and the environment.
Three patent applications cover the battery case, suppression system, and spraying mechanism.
The company is also working on a new material to reduce heat between cells during charging.