Renault Group is taking a groundbreaking step in road safety by making its innovative Fireman Access system freely available to the global automotive industry. This patented safety technology, developed in close collaboration with fire services, enables emergency responders to extinguish an electric vehicle (EV) battery fire in just a few minutes—compared to the several hours typically required without it. By adopting an open-licensing policy, Renault Group reinforces its commitment to advancing road safety worldwide and supporting the United Nations’ mission for safer mobility.
A Life-Saving Innovation for Electric Vehicles
Fireman Access is an exclusive safety feature designed to combat one of the most significant challenges posed by electric vehicles: battery fires. The system incorporates an adhesive disc strategically placed over an opening in the battery casing. Under normal circumstances, this disc remains sealed, ensuring the integrity of the battery. However, in the event of a fire, firefighters can use a high-pressure water jet to dislodge the disc, allowing water to penetrate directly into the battery cells. This targeted approach rapidly halts thermal runaway, significantly reducing extinguishing time and water consumption—minimizing both risk and resource waste.
Renault Group has been equipping all its EVs and plug-in hybrid models—across the Renault, Dacia, Alpine, and Mobilize brands—with Fireman Access as standard. Now, through the open collaborative platform www.renault/universalpatent.com, other automakers and suppliers can freely access this life-saving innovation. In return, licensees are encouraged to share any advancements they develop, fostering industry-wide collaboration for enhanced safety.
Renault’s Commitment to Road Safety on a Global Scale
Renault Group’s decision to make Fireman Access available to all manufacturers aligns with its broader commitment to road safety, a mission underscored by its partnership with the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt. By sharing this vital innovation, Renault seeks to remove barriers to safety improvements and accelerate industry-wide adoption of critical fire mitigation technologies.
Speaking on the initiative, Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo stated:
“Innovating to improve road safety is part of who we are at Renault. We’re particularly proud of the partnership developed with the fire services in recent years. Fireman Access is a practical demonstration of what can be achieved by combining our expertise as a manufacturer with the skills of the men and women who keep us safe every day. Today, I’m delighted to be making this innovation freely available, because when it comes to a subject like safety, we need to break down all the barriers.”
This commitment is being reinforced at the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Marrakech, where Renault Group is actively participating to further global road safety discussions. At a national level, Renault Group Morocco is strengthening collaborations with local emergency services and showcasing its road safety initiatives aimed at educating young people and communities.
A 360-Degree Approach to Road Safety
Renault Group’s road safety strategy follows a comprehensive framework based on four key pillars: prevention, correction, protection, and rescue. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, industry expertise, and real-world accident data, Renault continues to drive advancements in vehicle safety. The company’s commitment is embodied in the Renault Human First programme, which integrates advanced accident prevention systems, driver assistance technologies, and post-crash safety innovations.
Key Road Safety Facts at Renault Group:
- Over 50 years dedicated to optimizing vehicle safety
- 600 engineers and technicians specializing in safety research
- More than 2,000 safety-related patents since 1970
- Three state-of-the-art technical centres in France:
- Lardy: Crash tests, engine testing, and electric powertrain validation
- Aubevoye: Road grip and handling assessments
- Technocentre: Advanced vehicle design and driving simulations
- 15-year partnership with fire services, training over 5,000 firefighters in 19 countries
- QRescue Renault standard across all models
- Every Renault electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle now equipped with Fireman Access
Setting a New Standard for Safety
By openly sharing its Fireman Access technology, Renault Group is setting a new precedent for safety innovation in the automotive industry. This initiative not only demonstrates Renault’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives but also paves the way for a future where collaborative safety solutions benefit all road users. With Fireman Access now accessible to manufacturers worldwide, Renault Group is reinforcing its position as a leader in mobility safety—ensuring that technological advancements serve the greater good.
For more information and access to Fireman Access patents, visit www.renault/universalpatent.com.
