ClassNK has granted its “AFVC (Additional Fire-Fighting measures for
Vehicle Carrier)” notation to Texas Highway, a car carrier operated
by K-Line. The AFVC EV fire-fighting notations are for vessels equipped with
additional firefighting measures for transporting electric vehicles (EVs). EV fires raise concerns due to difficulties in extinguishing them and the risk of
re-ignition. As shipowners
take measures to address these issues, ClassNK has supported these efforts and
has issued “Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric
Vehicles.” These guidelines explain
the characteristics of EV fires and provide guidance on how to respond. They
also set out five types of “AFVC” notation.
ClassNK confirmed that the Texas Highway meets the requirements
for one of these five notations: FF (Fire Fighting). The notation recognizes that the ship’s fire
suppression manual includes essential information and considerations for
extinguishing fires involving electric vehicles on board. Additionally, it
confirmed that the necessary equipment for fire suppression activities is
available. These factors contribute to an assessment that rapid firefighting
operations can be effectively implemented.