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In this episode, Simon Clark and Brian Guinan chat with Emma Sutcliffe, Director of EV Firesafe, about the realities of electric vehicle (EV) fire safety. Emma shares how losing her plug-in hybrid in a 2018 bushfire inspired her mission to protect emergency responders, educate the public, and advance EV safety research in Australia.

Dive behind the scenes of EV fire testing, from controlled burns in Perth to large-scale experiments with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in the U.S. Emma explains EV battery longevity, recycling, and repurposing, and reveals insights from a Tesla Model Y crash investigation. She also highlights the need for more Australian-based EV battery recycling facilities.

The episode also explores Defence electrification projects, including the world-first electric Bushmaster armored vehicle, and wraps up with a fun rapid-fire round where Emma shares her favorite home design tips, music, and Tim Tam hacks.

Episode Covers:

• Expert insights into EV fire safety and battery testing
• Behind-the-scenes look at EV battery recycling and repurposing
• Tesla Model Y crash investigation and lessons learned
• Electrification of the Bushmaster armored vehicle in Australia

Episode Highlights:

• How a bushfire inspired Emma’s mission for EV fire safety
• Controlled burns in Perth and full-scale EV tests in the U.S.
• Challenges of end-of-life EV batteries and recycling solutions
• World-first electric Bushmaster and Defence innovation
• Rapid-fire fun: passive solar homes, Celtic music, and Tim Tams

Perfect for EV owners, first responders, sustainability advocates, and Australian innovation enthusiasts, this episode covers everything you need to know about EV safety, battery management, and future-proofing our electric mobility.

Brought you by: Weathertex (Platinum Sponsor), Evitat and Hydrowood ( Gold Sponsors)