Require New Electric Vehicles to Have Battery Fire Safety Technology
Official: HB6948 — To amend title 49, United States Code, to require each new electric and hybrid vehicle to be equipped with technology that allows the timely extinguishment of an electric vehicle battery fire, and for other purposes.
Reading: The bill requires new electric and hybrid vehicles to be equipped with battery fire extinguishment technology, establishing a new federal safety standard that supports EV adoption by addressing a barrier to widespread electric vehicle deployment.
It's sponsored by lawmakers from both parties who want to make electric vehicles safer for everyone who drives or lives near them.
In clear language
This federal bill would require all new electric and hybrid vehicles sold in the U.S. to have built-in technology that can quickly put out battery fires. The bill addresses safety concerns about electric vehicle fires and was introduced in Congress in January 2026. It's sponsored by lawmakers from both parties who want to make electric vehicles safer for everyone who drives or lives near them.
How does this affect you?
Pick the type of resident or organization you most identify with — we'll generate a plain-language breakdown of what changes for you and what you can do about it.
Who does this affect?
- People who buy new electric or hybrid vehicles
- Emergency responders and firefighters who deal with vehicle fires
- Car manufacturers who would need to add this safety technology
- Communities near roads and highways where electric vehicles travel
What can you do?
- Contact your U.S. Representative to express support for vehicle safety standards
- If you own an electric vehicle, ask your dealer about existing fire safety features and maintenance
Timeline
- 2026-01-06: Bill introduced in House
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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