Stellantis patents battery ejection system for EV fire safety

Automotive manufacturer Stellantis has patented a new safety concept designed to mitigate the risks of thermal runaway in electric vehicle batteries. The system aims to physically separate the high-voltage battery pack from the vehicle chassis if a fire or dangerous overheating is detected.

According to the patent, the separation can be achieved using pyrotechnic fasteners—small explosive bolts used in aerospace and defense—to rapidly disconnect the battery from the vehicle, allowing it to drop to the ground. An alternative mechanical locking frame mechanism is also proposed to release the battery without explosives.

To prevent the vehicle from becoming stranded after losing its primary power source, the system allows the car to move away from the fire. Once the heavy battery pack is jettisoned, the vehicle can utilize its 12-volt auxiliary battery and an electric motor to autonomously or manually drive a short distance away from the hazard.