Matson, a shipping company, has announced the suspension of transporting electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) effective immediately due to the classification of lithium-ion batteries as hazardous materials, leading to escalating safety risks in transportation.

In a letter addressed to customers, the company stated, "Given the increasing societal concerns regarding the safety of transporting large lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles, Matson has decided to cease accepting new and existing bookings for the transportation of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles effective immediately. We have suspended new bookings for such cargo on all of our routes."

This decision directly impacts the vehicle transportation business between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii, Guam, and Alaska. Data from the Hawaii Electric Vehicle Association shows that there are over 37,000 registered electric vehicles in Hawaii. While specific numbers from Guam were not disclosed, local car dealers expressed regret, noting that electric vehicles are well-suited for island roads, and Matson's decision will affect consumers' car purchasing and logistics choices.

Matson has been actively addressing the technical challenges posed by electric vehicle transportation. The company has established an "Electric Vehicle Safety Transportation Working Group" and collaborated with external organizations to research safety standards for electric vehicles and lithium battery transportation. They have also developed onshore lithium battery handling procedures, including a mechanism for reviewing the transportation of used batteries and checklists. Onboard, they have devised strategies to prevent and control lithium battery fires, such as proper stacking, thermal imaging monitoring, and the use of new firefighting tool Viking HydroPen.

The company further stated in the letter, "The company will continue to support the industry in establishing comprehensive standards and operating procedures to address the risk of lithium-ion battery fires in maritime transportation and will resume related transportation services once relevant safety solutions are implemented and meet company requirements."

Industry analysts suggest that Matson's decision to halt transportation may be linked to several recent incidents involving electric vehicle fires. These include the recent fire and sinking of the "Morning Midas" near the Aleutian Islands, which was carrying a significant number of electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as the major accidents caused by electric vehicle fires aboard the "Fremantle Highway" in 2023 and the "Felicity Ace" in 2022, prompting a global reevaluation of maritime electric vehicle safety.

Unlike roll-on/roll-off vessels, Matson uses container shipping for vehicle transportation on some routes, which complicates battery monitoring and response space, further exacerbating fire risks. This difference is also considered a practical consideration for Matson in suspending related transportation.

Currently, Matson continues to offer transportation services for traditional fuel vehicles and operates ferry services within the Hawaiian Islands, conducting container inter-island transportation operations.