By Brandi Makuski
PLOVER — Firefighters responded Monday to a fully engulfed electric vehicle fire along Interstate 39 near mile marker 154 after the vehicle reportedly struck a guardrail and caught fire.
The Tesla became heavily involved in flames shortly after the crash. Crews worked to prevent the fire from spreading.
Plover Fire Chief Mark Deaver said there was little firefighters could do beyond containment and to “let it burn out.”
EV fires are becoming notorious in the fire and towing industry, as the lithium-based batteries are virtually impossible to extinguish. They burn longer than conventional vehicle fires and carry a higher risk of reignition, often requiring extended monitoring.
(Metro Wire photo)
(Metro Wire photo)
Plover police said one northbound lane was closed by sheriff’s deputies and will likely remain closed for at least a few hours.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is also on the scene.
Information about injuries or the cause of the crash was not immediately available. Motorists were advised to use caution and expect delays near mile marker 154.
