- Established the first proactive safety system for EV fire response in Korea’s refining industry
- Recognized for enhancing public safety through the introduction of EV fire suppression system
GS Caltex (CEO Saehong Hur) announced that it received the Gyeonggi-do Governor’s Commendation on the 63rd Firefighting Day in recognition of its contribution to public safety through the installation of fire suppression systems at electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
The commendation was awarded to GS Caltex for its efforts as the first Korean refiner to install dedicated EV fire suppression systems at four Energy Plus Hub sites — Sambang, Naegok, Jukjeon, and Dalmaji — thereby strengthening safety measures for local communities.
EV fires can spread rapidly due to the thermal runaway characteristics of batteries, making them significantly harder to extinguish than conventional vehicle fires. Even with sufficient manpower and equipment, there are limits to initial response efforts. Given the high risk of secondary injury, in particular when on-site personnel attempt direct intervention, initial suppression systems capable of containing fires while ensuring personnel safety are highly regarded as an effective and practical response measure.
GS Caltex first introduced its EV fire suppression system at the Energy Plus Hub Dalmaji site in April this year and later expanded it to three additional key locations.
The system features fixed water-spray nozzle plates installed beneath the EV charging stations that immediately discharge water in the event of a fire to contain the flames. By preventing rapid heat buildup and combustion during the early stages of a fire, the system helps secure the critical ‘golden’ response time before the emergency responders reach the scene.
GS Caltex also established a practical EV fire response model suited for urban environments by optimizing the system based on a comprehensive analysis of each station’s location, estimated arrival time of firefighting teams, and water storage capacity.
The company’s proactive safety initiative has bolstered fire response capabilities at its charging stations and is recognized as an exemplary case of voluntary safety enhancement within the private sector amid growing public concern over the risk of EV fires.
Dohyun Jo, Vice President and Head of Mobility & Marketing Planning at GS Caltex, stated, “The safety of our customers and local communities is our top priority. We will continue strengthening our safety management systems and building a smarter, more reliable EV charging infrastructure centered on the Energy Plus Hub.”
