IAG launches global research project on lithium-ion battery safety

IAG, Australia’s largest general insurer, has launched a global initiative to “debunk misconceptions about battery fires and establish clear, practical safety guidelines for everyday use.”

Partnering with experts including Queensland University of Technology (QUT), EV FireSafe, Standards Australia, and the iMOVE Co-operative Research Centre, the project aims to investigate how risks are managed in electric vehicles (EVs) and micromobility devices, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, both in Australia and around the world.

Shawn Ticehurst, Head of IAG’s Research Centre, highlighted the need for updated safety standards. He noted, “This year, the sales of EVs, including plug-in hybrids made up nearly 10% of all new car sales in Australia, while e-bikes now represent one-third of all bicycle sales. This research will provide critical insights on how to safely store, handle and dispose of the increasing number of lithium-ion batteries as they reach the end of their life, helping to prevent incidents that pose a risk to life and property safety.”

While battery fires in EVs are rare, IAG’s research indicates a rise in incidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters. According to Ticehurst, factors such as incorrect usage, damage, or exposure to extreme conditions can lead to battery failure, underscoring the importance of creating clear and actionable safety standards.

The project will investigate various risks, including battery condition, charging practices, exposure to weather, and the potential link between vehicle age and fire risk. Ticehurst added, “There are many knowledge gaps we’ll be exploring through global collaboration, which will be key in developing effective best practice strategies.”

Collaborators are contributing specialised expertise to the project, with QUT’s Associate Professor Joshua Watts stressing the need for frameworks aligned with international best practices to ensure the safe rollout of battery technology. Standards Australia’s Adam Stingemore noted the importance of addressing gaps in existing standards, while EV FireSafe’s Emma Sutcliffe said the project will help enhance safety for users and emergency responders.

Findings from the project, set to be published in 2026, aim to inform robust safety standards for lithium-ion battery use in Australia and beyond.