Electric vehicle (EV) battery fires have become a significant concern, sparking multiple major lawsuits against automakers and battery manufacturers. These legal actions focus on alleged defects in lithium-ion battery packs that can overheat, short circuit, or even spontaneously ignite, posing serious safety risks to drivers, passengers, and property.
One of the most prominent examples involves the Chevrolet Bolt, where several class action lawsuits have been filed. Plaintiffs claim that the Bolt’s 60 kWh lithium-ion batteries can overheat when fully charged, leading to catastrophic fires. Despite General Motors issuing multiple recalls and software updates, these measures are alleged to have failed to fully resolve the problem. The lawsuits argue that GM cannot adequately repair the vehicles, leaving owners exposed to ongoing fire risks and limitations on battery charging to avoid overheating. These cases highlight the tension between advertised driving range and real-world battery safety, with owners facing both safety hazards and diminished vehicle usability.
Similarly, Tesla has faced product liability lawsuits related to battery fires, including a recent case involving a Cybertruck fire that resulted in a fatality. The lawsuit alleges defective battery design, failure to warn consumers about fire risks, and malfunctioning safety features that trapped the occupant inside the vehicle after the crash. Tesla’s challenges with battery fire litigation reflect broader concerns about lithium-ion battery technology, which can burn hotter and longer than gasoline fires and may reignite after being extinguished. These cases raise questions about whether current EV designs adequately protect occupants and first responders.
Luxury EV makers like Audi and Porsche are also under legal scrutiny. Audi faces a class action lawsuit claiming that its e-tron SUVs contain defective batteries prone to short circuits and fires, which the company allegedly failed to disclose or fix properly. Porsche’s Taycan lineup has been targeted by a class action alleging persistent battery defects despite multiple recalls, leading to fire risks and reduced resale value. These lawsuits emphasize that battery fire issues are not limited to mass-market EVs but affect premium models as well.
Liability in EV battery fire cases can be complex. Potential defendants include battery manufacturers for design or manufacturing defects, automakers for failing to warn or adequately repair, repair shops for negligent work, charging station operators for faulty equipment, and even other drivers if a collision caused the fire. Building a strong case often requires expert analysis of the battery and vehicle data logs, evidence of prior recalls or complaints, and witness testimony.
The consequences of EV battery fires extend beyond vehicle damage. Injuries can include severe burns, smoke inhalation, an
