BMW ‘New’ Cars from Burnt Ship Face Obliteration
Judge Orders Destruction of Fremantle Highway Cargo
A Dutch judge has ruled that the nearly 500 new BMWs aboard the recently salvaged Fremantle Highway must be dismantled. The decision upholds the perilous nature of the vehicles after a severe fire that raged for days.
Courtroom Verdict: No Resale for Damaged Autos
Despite the vehicles being described as “brand new,” legal proceedings confirmed their unsalvageable condition. Any attempt to trade or sell these cars is now strictly prohibited, a verdict that has left many in the automotive industry contemplating the consequences.
“They don’t send wrecks to Japan, right?”
—Timme Geerlof, Lawyer
The ruling stems from a critical fire that erupted on the cargo ship, forcing an international response. The blaze consumed a significant portion of the vessel’s electric vehicle inventory.
Lingering Questions on Ship Safety
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety protocols for transporting electric vehicles at sea. The potential for thermal runaway in EV batteries remains a significant risk. Recent analysis indicates that fires on car carrier ships have become more frequent, with the number of incidents doubling between 2020 and 2022 according to the International Union of Marine Insurance.
The judge’s definitive order means the affected BMWs will likely be sent to a shredder, rather than finding their way to dealerships or consumers, even in a damaged state.
