Renault Group is taking a major step forward in road safety innovation by making its patented Fireman Access technology freely available to the entire automotive industry. Developed in collaboration with firefighters, this exclusive system allows electric vehicle battery fires to be extinguished in just minutes, compared to the several hours required with traditional methods.
Now accessible through an open-license platform, Fireman Access underscores Renault Group’s commitment to breaking down technological barriers and promoting widespread adoption of safety-enhancing solutions. Luca de Meo, CEO of Renault Group, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that innovation for road safety is part of Renault’s DNA. He described the partnership with firefighters as a significant step in improving EV safety and emphasized that by sharing this technology, Renault is contributing to making mobility safer worldwide.
The system operates on a simple yet groundbreaking principle. A sealed opening in the battery casing allows firefighters to directly inject water into the core of the battery, stopping thermal runaway in just minutes. This drastically reduces intervention time and water usage, providing a major breakthrough for emergency responders while also minimizing the environmental impact of battery fires.
Already implemented in Renault, Dacia, Alpine, and Mobilize electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, Fireman Access is protected by seven patents and is poised for rapid adoption by other manufacturers.
Renault’s initiative extends beyond Fireman Access, aligning with its broader commitment to road safety on an international scale. The group actively collaborates with Jean Todt, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, and reaffirmed its dedication at the Fourth Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Marrakech. Through partnerships with local authorities and educational campaigns led by the Renault Foundation, the company is working to reduce accidents and improve road safety worldwide.
For over 50 years, Renault has pursued a comprehensive approach to road safety, combining prevention, protection, and post-accident assistance. In 2023, it launched the Human First Program, integrating AI-driven solutions like Safety Score and Safety Coach, which help drivers anticipate and avoid risks in real-time.
By offering Fireman Access technology for free, Renault is making a bold statement as a manufacturer prioritizing public safety over proprietary technology. This decision could accelerate the adoption of universal safety standards in the industry and support the transition to a safer and more sustainable mobility future.
Companies interested in implementing this game-changing safety feature can now obtain the license for free via Renault Group’s open collaboration platform at http://Renault.fr/universalpatent.
