Effective immediately, this policy is regarding the transport of damaged Electric Vehicles (EVs) by tow truck or trailer.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and vessels by regulating the transport of electric vehicles (EVs) that may pose fire hazards due to battery damage.
SCOPE
This policy applies to:
- Tow trucks or trailers transporting damaged EVs
- Drivable but damaged EV boarding under their own power
On all Western Pacific Marine (WPM) routes and vessels
POLICY / RESTRICTED VEHICLES
Due to the increased risk of thermal runaway and fire associated with lithium-ion batteries in damaged EVs, WPM will implement the following restrictions.
Prohibited Vehicles
The following vehicles will not be permitted on WPM vessels:
- EVs being transported by tow truck or trailer with visible or known battery damage
- EVs involved in collisions or with compromised high-voltage systems
- EVs showing signs of fluid leaks, electrical arcing, or deformation near the battery compartment
Conditional Boarding – Captain’s Discretion
The following EVs may be allowed on board, subject to approval of the vessel’s Master:
- Drivable EVs with cosmetic-only damage (e.g. scratches, dents)
- EVs verified to have no battery, wiring, or fluid system compromise
EXCEPTIONS
- Commercial auto carriers transporting undamaged or new EVs in bulk remain exempt from the restrictions above
- Any exception must be authorized by the WPM Marine Manager in writing
NOTIFICATION & DOCUMENTATION
- WPM will post this policy on its website and at terminals
- Tow operators must declare the condition of an EV when booking or arriving at the terminal
- Masters will maintain incident logs for any EVs denied boarding due to this policy
REVIEW
This policy will be reviewed quarterly or as new guidance becomes available from Transport Canada or relevant marine safety authorities.
For questions or clarifications, please contact Capt. James Maung, Director of Operations, at jamesm@westernpacificmarine.com