Raja Ferry Conducts EV Fire Drill Ahead of First Electric Vehicle Transport Service to Samui

[Georgealbert]

 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

 

Raja Ferry Port has conducted an emergency fire drill to prepare for potential battery fires in electric vehicles (EVs) while onboard its ferries. The company is set to launch its first official EV ferry service to Koh Samui on 11 February.

 

The drill, held on 6 February, was overseen by senior officials, including Mr. Phutthaphong Wimonphan, Deputy Managing Director of Raja Ferry, along with Mr. Pramuan Thetsana, Director of the Surat Thani Regional Marine Office, and Mr. Phongwit Inmai, Senior Port Inspector from the same office. The exercise simulated a battery short circuit in an EV onboard a ferry travelling between Don Sak and Koh Samui, resulting in a fire.

 

During the drill, ferry staff followed emergency response protocols. EVs are positioned with a three-metre gap between each vehicle, with two crew members assigned to monitor the vehicle deck at all times. Upon detecting a fire, the crew alerted the ship’s captain and the control centre on shore for support. They then attempted to contain the fire using fire-resistant suits and specialised BF2000 fire extinguishers designed for electrical fires. If the fire proved uncontrollable, a fire blanket was deployed over the vehicle while continuous water cooling was applied to prevent further spread.

 

Mr. Phutthaphong emphasised that the safety of passengers and their vehicles is a top priority. He stated that Raja Ferry has been conducting regular emergency drills and implementing additional safety measures to ensure readiness. “Many people are interested in electric vehicles, and we recognise the need for strong safety measures. After thorough preparation, we are now ready to accept EVs on our ferries starting 11 February.”

 

 

Initially, the company will operate special EV ferry services twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, along the Don Sak–Koh Samui route. Passengers wishing to travel with their EVs can book tickets in advance online or at ferry ticket offices.

 

Mr. Phongwit Inmai, who observed the drill, expressed confidence in the ferry company’s preparedness. “The drill demonstrated a high level of readiness and safety. Regular monthly fire drills ensure that ferry staff are well-trained, and specific measures for EVs, such as the use of fire blankets, provide added confidence for passengers.”

 

Raja Ferry’s initiative reflects growing awareness of the unique fire risks associated with EVs and marks a significant step towards integrating electric vehicles into Thailand’s ferry transport network safely.

 

Related article;

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1345785-ev-owners-frustrated-as-samui-ferries-restrict-ev-transport-over-new-year-period/

https://aseannow.com/topic/1345966-raja-ferry-considers-special-ev-only-ferry-service-to-koh-samui/

 

 

-- 2025-02-07

 

[crazykopite]

When are we going to get back our car ferry service direct from Koh Phangan to Samui it’s now a few years since we lost the service . I can remember in the early 2,000s the SeaTran used to do an every Wednesday car ferry between both islands why can’t that be re-introduced I remember having to book it days before as it was always full !

[Tropicalevo]

2 hours ago, crazykopite said:

When are we going to get back our car ferry service direct from Koh Phangan to Samui it’s now a few years since we lost the service . I can remember in the early 2,000s the SeaTran used to do an every Wednesday car ferry between both islands why can’t that be re-introduced I remember having to book it days before as it was always full !

 

I do not know what the issue is with Seatran, but they are offering a very limited service at the moment.

No services to Koh Tao and only two trips a day to KPN.