SCDF trials new robotic firefighter to handle EV fires
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The vehicle extrication robot was unveiled at the Singapore-International Disaster & Emergency Management Expo on Oct 28 by Second Minister for Home Affairs Sim Ann (second from left), accompanied by SCDF Commissioner Eric Yap.
ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM
- SCDF launched the Vehicle Extrication Robot, or VXR, to help handle EV fires. It can move a car up to 300 metres away and spray water mist.
- Second Minister for Home Affairs Sim Ann said EVs now make up “more than 60 per cent of new vehicle registrations” in Singapore in the first half of 2026. She warned lithium-ion batteries can face thermal runaway and re-ignite.
- SCDF will trial the VXR at Punggol and Kallang fire stations from October 2026 and April 2027 respectively. Singapore also plans deeper disaster cooperation with Japan through a new Memorandum of Cooperation.
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SINGAPORE – The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) has launched a car-size robot to deal with electric vehicle (EV) fires, as figures showing EVs’ popularity among car buyers continue to climb.
The vehicle extrication robot (VXR) will allow firefighters to move an affected EV, which is at risk of reigniting after a fire has been extinguished, to a safe spot as they continue their work.
Announcing the launch on Oct 28, Second Minister for Home Affairs Sim Ann noted that EVs accounted for more than 60% of new vehicle registrations in Singapore in the first half of 2026.
Adding that their adoption will continue to grow, she said: “This introduces new challenges for firefighters.
“Lithium-ion batteries can undergo thermal runaway, and affected vehicles may remain at risk of reignition even after a fire has been extinguished.”
A thermal runaway occurs when an uncontrollable chain reaction causes intense heat to be released, which results in more materials being ignited.
Sim said the robot is being introduced as SCDF strengthens its EV response capabilities through research and burn tests to develop new fire safety regulations and operational procedures, supported by specialised equipment.
Speaking at the Singapore-International Disaster & Emergency Management Expo, held at the Singapore Expo, Sim said the VXR can remotely move an affected vehicle to a safer location from up to 300m away, giving responders a safer distance from the vehicle during recovery operations.
The robot, which runs on tracks, moves a vehicle by lifting the front wheels. It also blankets the car with water.
The VXR will start operational trials at Punggol Fire Station from October 2026 and Kallang Fire Station from April 2027.
Sim also announced at the event, which has 48 international partner agencies participating in 2026 compared with 32 last year, that SCDF has strengthened its emergency medical services with a new-generation ambulance designed as a future-ready mobile clinical workspace.
Second Minister for Home Affairs Sim Ann, accompanied by SCDF Commissioner Eric Yap (right), watching a demonstration of the capabilities of the new-generation ambulance.
ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM
Over three days, more than 650 participants from 45 countries will collaborate to exchange knowledge, showcase capabilities and forge partnerships at the event.
Sim shared that the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Cabinet Office of Japan will also deepen cooperation in disaster management technologies and strengthen the exchange of knowledge in disaster management policies, frameworks and best practices.
The event features 103 exhibitors from eight countries showcasing the latest technologies, products and services in disaster management.
Among the exhibits are breathing apparatus systems, protective gear for firefighters and a firefighting drone from South Korea that tackles fires in tall apartment buildings.
A firefighting drone at the booth of South Korea’s SG Safety Corporation.
ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM