Mercedes-Benz EQE Catches Fire In Korea; Local Authorities Investigate

Mercedes-Benz Korea has issued a statement expressing "deep regret" following a fire that broke out in an underground parking lot, allegedly caused by an explosion in one of its electric vehicles (EVs). The incident occurred on Thursday in an apartment complex in Incheon, approximately 27 km west of Seoul.

The vehicle involved, a white EV sedan believed to be from Mercedes-Benz's EQE line, ignited under unclear circumstances. Surveillance footage captured smoke emanating from the car before it suddenly erupted into flames. Firefighters managed to contain the blaze after nearly five hours of effort.

Sixteen residents, including seven children under the age of 10, were hospitalised for smoke inhalation. The fire also caused significant damage, reportedly affecting around 70 other vehicles parked in the lot.

"We express our deep regret to the residents of the apartment complex and the surrounding area affected by the recent incident," Mercedes-Benz Korea conveyed in a statement to Korea’s Yonhap News Agency. The company emphasised its commitment to cooperating fully with authorities to investigate the cause of the fire thoroughly.

Mercedes-Benz Korea underscored the seriousness with which it is addressing the incident, yet refrained from providing specific details regarding the car model or the internal battery, citing the ongoing investigation. "As the investigation is still ongoing, we ask for your understanding that we cannot provide further details at this time," the statement concluded.

Local authorities and Mercedes-Benz are working collaboratively to determine the fundamental cause of the accident, ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future.

Image Source: Twitter/ Brian Basson