Lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles can start to burn after a collision even though there is no visible damage.

They can also be re-ignited after several days.

The gases formed are extremely dangerous to inhale and the battery may also explode.

- A battery can burn for a very long time and it can be re-ignited several times, says Tommy Carnebo.

The risk of an electric car burning is no greater than for cars that run on diesel or petrol.

Rather the opposite.

But the consequences are so much greater.

A fossil-powered car has completely burned out in 40-60 minutes, while electric car batteries that have been extinguished can start burning again after a week.

Huge challenge to increase knowledge

Tommy Carnebo wants to see a massive educational effort by several authorities and businesses to increase knowledge.

- This is a huge challenge.

There are so many who are affected by a fire in an electric car battery.

These are the police, firefighters, rescue services, car rescuers, workshops, insurance companies, shipping companies and ports.

- It is also important what it looks like in, for example, the parking garage you have for the home or at the shopping center.

Charging posts must be placed near exits.

There must also be proper ventilation, sprinkler systems and fire alarms, says Tommy Carnebo.

Do not stand indoors

The police are currently reviewing where to place confiscated electric cars.

If a damaged electric car has been involved in a crime or an accident, police technicians cannot analyze the vehicle until it has been quarantined.

It must absolutely not be left indoors due to the risks.

Right now, about 100,000 hybrid cars are rolling on the roads and when more and more electric vehicles arrive, the risks are expected to increase.

According to the insurance industry, about 5,000 car fires occur each year.

However, there are no statistics on how many of the fires involve electric cars.

Tommy Carnebo has lectured at around 40 rescue services in Sweden, at the police, insurance companies, workshops and vehicle manufacturers throughout Europe, but believes that Swedish authorities do not take the change seriously.

Nor does he think that politicians have shown interest. 

- For 1.5 years I have lectured to thousands of people who are affected by this but have never been asked by a political party.

It's weird, says Tommy Carnebo.