A cargo ship fire involving electric cars has put thousands of vehicles at risk as they were headed from China to Mexico. The incident occurred on June 3, 2025, in the Pacific Ocean, about 300 nautical miles south of Adak Island, Alaska. The vessel, named Morning Midas, was transporting more than 3,000 cars, including 70 electric and 681 hybrid models.
The 22 crew members on board were rescued without injury after issuing a distress signal. The fire remains active, and maritime authorities continue containment and risk assessment efforts.
The fire started on the electric vehicle deck
The Morning Midas, operated by Zodiac Maritime and flagged in the United Kingdom, had departed from ports in China and was bound for Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán. The flames began on the deck where electric vehicles were stored, raising alarms about the dangers associated with lithium batteries.
Although the crew activated the CO₂ fire suppression system, the fire reignited after the gas supply was exhausted. Specialists note that such incidents are common when dealing with lithium-ion battery fires. This situation confirms the risks posed by a cargo ship fire involving electric vehicles, where flames can easily reignite even after initial suppression efforts.
Environmental risks and challenges for the maritime industry
The ship was also carrying 350 tons of liquefied gas and over 1,500 tons of very low sulfur fuel oil. In the event of a spill or explosion, the environmental impact could be severe. The U.S. Coast Guard deployed both aerial and maritime support to coordinate the salvage operation, including the mobilization of a specialized tugboat.
This cargo ship fire recalls the Felicity Ace incident, which sank in 2022 after burning for weeks while transporting luxury vehicles. According to insurers like Allianz Commercial, incidents aboard cargo ships have increased, particularly those involving electric vehicles and their batteries.
The Morning Midas case once again raises the need to review safety protocols for the maritime transport of electric vehicles. As investigations continue, concerns remain high regarding the technical and environmental risks posed by a cargo ship fire.
Sources
Vanguardia, L. (2025, 5 junio). Nuevo incendio en alta mar de un buque carguero que transportaba coches eléctricos: 3.000 vehículos arden en el Pacífico. La Vanguardia. https://www.lavanguardia.com/motor/actualidad/20250605/10757806/nuevo-incendio-alta-mar-buque-carguero-transportaba-coches-electricos-3000-vehiculos-arden-pacifico-tsc.html
