Written Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan to Parliamentary Question on Spontaneous Vehicle Fire Incidents

Mr Muhamad Faisal Abdul Manap asked the Minister for Transport

a. what is the number of incidents of spontaneous vehicle fires per year since 2010;

b. whether there are any patterns in such incidents by vehicle category or brand;

c. what is the breakdown of the causes of such fires; and

d. what are the steps being taken by LTA to reduce such incidents.

Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan:

1. There were about 200 cases of spontaneous vehicle fires every year since 2014. Figures prior to 2014 are not readily available.

2. Among these vehicles which caught fire, about 60% were motorcars and 20%, light goods vehicles. Based on SCDF's findings, there were two main causes: faults in the electrical components, and overheating of the engines. Regular maintenance could reduce the risk of such fires occurring.

3. Hence, LTA requires older vehicles and vehicles that are heavily used to be inspected more frequently. LTA is also working with SCDF to remind vehicle owners on regular maintenance and against illegal modification of their vehicles as this could compromise the safety features of their vehicles and trigger vehicle fires.