Hyundai Mobis has announced the successful development of a groundbreaking technology aimed at preventing thermal runaway in electric vehicle (EV) batteries. This new system can immediately extinguish a fire by spraying a fire extinguishing agent when a battery cell ignites, marking the first technology capable of stopping thermal runaway by preventing heat from spreading to adjacent cells.
The technology goes beyond simply delaying thermal runaway by using heat-resistant materials. It focuses on preventing the occurrence of thermal runaway altogether. As regulations tighten globally, including in Europe, China, and India, which mandate that thermal runaway be delayed for at least five minutes after a battery cell ignites, Hyundai Mobis’ new battery system assembly (BSA) with a cell-level fire extinguishing feature is poised to become a next-generation safety solution for the global market.
The BSA developed by Hyundai Mobis includes a battery management system (BMS), hardware with a fire extinguishing device and battery case, and software logic for controlling these components. The system uses real-time data collected from sensors that monitor temperature, voltage, and pressure inside the battery. If any abnormalities are detected, the system quickly determines where to spray the extinguishing agent and activates the device.
The software is designed for quick, accurate decision-making to respond to any changes in the battery system. It incorporates multiple safety devices and a redundant algorithm structure for reliability. The fire extinguishing agent used is five times the capacity of a standard 3.3-kilogram home fire extinguisher and has excellent cooling, insulation, and permeability properties, making it safe for both humans and the environment.
Hyundai Mobis has applied for three domestic and international patents related to the system, including those for the battery case, fire extinguishing device, and high-pressure piping design. Park Yong Jun, Vice President of the Battery System R&D Group at Hyundai Mobis, emphasized the importance of meeting and exceeding global safety standards as EVs with longer driving ranges become more prevalent.
Additionally, Hyundai Mobis has developed a new material called a pulsating heat pipe, which can prevent battery overheating. Made from aluminum alloy and refrigerant, this material is placed between battery cells to reduce the internal temperature, making it especially useful for thermal management during rapid charging. The company is now focusing on commercializing this material as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance battery safety and performance.
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