General Motors has announced an outline of safety steps to be taken after a Chevrolet Volt has been in an accident, ensuring battery fires will not happen.  This is in response to the National Highway Traffic Safety tests which found that the Volt’s battery often catches fire after a severe crash and rollover simulation.

GM had introduced the de-powering procedure for Volt batteries in July, after the initial NHTSA tests found fault.  They’ve shared the process with NHTSA and are working to extend the process and technology.

“GM and the agency’s focus and research continue to be on the performance, handling, storage and disposal of batteries after a crash or other significant event. We’re working with NHTSA so we all have an understanding about these risks and how they can be avoided in the future. This isn’t just a Volt issue. We’re already leading a joint electric vehicle activity with Society of Automotive Engineers and other automotive companies to address new issues, such as this protocol of de-powering batteries after a severe crash.” —Mary Barra, GM Senior VP, Global Product Development.

General Motors also announced the formation of a Volt Owner Satisfaction Program wherein any current Volt owner who is unsatisfied with the safety of their vehicle can arrange a free loan of another GM vehicle (non-Volt) until their concerns are resolve or sell back their Volt for a full refund.