
Battery Safety & Community Confidence in Electric Vehicles
Battery safety is a top concern in many communities exploring the use of electric vehicles (EVs). This session will provide a clear overview of EV battery systems, common safety questions, and how public agencies, manufacturers, and first responders are addressing fire risk, crash response, and end-of-vehicle-life management. We will also examine how misinformation and gaps in trust can influence public perception, particularly in rural and diverse communities with middle- to low-income populations. The discussion will highlight effective communication and education strategies that can support transparency, build local confidence, and empower residents to make informed decisions about clean transportation.