UK's First EV Firefighting Academy Opens to Train Crews on Battery Blazes
The UK's first specialised academy for tackling electric vehicle (EV) battery fires has opened its doors. Launched by Silverlake Automotive Recycling and Cold Cut Systems UK, the Cobra Electric Vehicle Training Academy will train firefighters in Southern England. The initiative aims to improve safety when dealing with lithium-ion battery blazes in EVs.
The academy's launch on 27 November 2025 drew over 20 representatives from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Services, along with other UK fire crews. Officials have welcomed the new facility as a step toward better training and tactics for EV incidents.
The academy will teach firefighters how to use the Cold Cut Cobra system, a high-pressure cutting extinguisher designed to stop battery fires from spreading. Developed with major car manufacturers, this award-winning method has already gained industry recognition. Trainees will practise with handheld Cobra devices to interrupt fire propagation in EV batteries.
Silverlake's partnership with Cold Cut Systems UK came naturally, given the company's expertise in vehicle construction and advanced facilities. The site has long supported Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue with simulated road collision training. Now, the focus shifts to EV fire risks, an area where traditional firefighting methods often fall short. Rob Cole, Assistant Chief Fire Officer at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue, highlighted the academy's role in testing new tactics. He noted that the facility would help refine training approaches for EV incidents. Meanwhile, Allen Prebble, Managing Director at Silverlake, pledged to keep the site available for further sessions in 2026. Martin Orman, Managing Director of Cold Cut Systems UK, stressed the importance of the collaboration. He pointed to Silverlake's world-class infrastructure as key to delivering effective, hands-on training. The academy's goal is clear: provide UK fire services with proven, safe strategies for handling EV battery fires.
The Cobra Electric Vehicle Training Academy marks the first dedicated UK programme for EV fire response. Firefighters will now have access to specialised tools and techniques for lithium-ion battery incidents. With Silverlake's ongoing support, further training sessions are already planned for the coming year.
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