Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is dedicated to supporting the country’s ambitions of becoming an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) hub. As part of its corporate responsibility as an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, the company recently conducted an extensive EV emergency training program for the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (Bomba) team at its state-of-the-art Training Academy in Puchong, Selangor.
With the increasing adoption of EVs in Malaysia, it is essential for emergency responders to be properly trained in managing EV-related incidents. The Electrification Drive: Fire and Rescue Team Orientation program was created to address this critical need by providing vital information about EV technology and outlining best practices for handling EVs in various challenging situations. 
Amanda Zhang, CEO & President of Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia, emphasized the importance of the program: “We are pleased to collaborate closely with the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia team to establish and sustain a crucial support system, fostering a conducive ecosystem for EEVs and drivers. This initiative highlights Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s commitment to public safety by equipping rescue teams with the necessary knowledge and tools to handle EV emergencies. This not only improves the safety of both responders and vehicle occupants but also reduces response times and maximizes operational efficiency.” 
Over 40 Bomba personnel participated in the training, which covered theoretical aspects and hands-on practical experience to safely manage electric vehicle incidents. The training included identification of EV models, high-voltage vehicle and battery handling, battery scanner usage, fire blanket application, emergency protocols, and the use of the Mercedes-Benz Rescue Assist App. 
PgKB I Mohd Tilmizi bin Mustapa remarked, “With the rise of electric mobility, it is essential to understand and manage both the potentials and challenges of EV driving. It is crucial for emergency responders to be trained in safety procedures for handling high-voltage vehicles and batteries, using battery scanners to assess battery conditions, and recognizing various EV models and their components, including cutting techniques for rescue operations. This specialized training reduces risks during incidents and enhances both the efficiency and safety of our teams, enabling them to manage situations effectively while minimizing hazards to themselves and the public.”
The hands-on training also included the use of the Mercedes-Benz Rescue Assist App, which allows responders to access critical vehicle information quickly. By learning how to locate and scan QR codes, rescue teams can obtain vehicle-specific data promptly, even in scenarios where the QR codes are inaccessible. This rapid access to information can be crucial in time-sensitive emergency situations.
Edmin Naidoo, Vice President of Customer Services at Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia, further affirmed the company’s commitment, stating, “At Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, all our technical experts in authorized service centers are rigorously trained and qualified to handle the complex composition of EVs. This level of expertise sets us apart, ensuring that our customers receive the highest standard of safety and service. Extending this expertise to Bomba aligns with our commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and service.”
Safety is at the core of Mercedes-Benz’s ethos. This initiative underscores Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s dedication to collaborating with key stakeholders to enhance public safety and support the nation’s transition towards a sustainable automotive future. By sharing its expertise and resources, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia aims to contribute to the development of a well-prepared and efficient emergency response ecosystem, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community as automotive technologies evolve.
