Ship Carrying 800 EVs Abandoned In Pacific After Fire Breaks Out

The Morning Midas, a roll-on/roll-off vehicle carrier, was abandoned in the central Pacific Ocean on Tuesday due to an onboard fire. The vessel was carrying around 3,000 vehicles, including approximately 800 electric vehicles. The cause of the fire has not been confirmed, but lithium-ion battery ignition is a possible cause given the cargo profile and previous incidents. The Morning Midas had departed China in late May and was headed to Mexico. All 22 crew members were evacuated to a nearby merchant vessel by the US Coast Guard. Coast Guard sea-based assets are en route to the incident area. The ship's manager, Zodiac Maritime, confirmed that smoke was billowing from the deck and salvage support teams are en route. Insurance giant Allianz has emphasized the need to strengthen safety protocols for maritime shipments involving lithium-ion batteries due to the proliferation of green tech. The incident highlights the risks associated with transporting electric vehicles by sea. The incident is currently being investigated and monitored by the relevant authorities.