FIRE risks are behind the ban on testing and racing electric vehicles at Willowbank Raceway.

Race bosses have said electric vehicles are now deemed too dangerous to compete.

Willowbank Raceway called for the ban on electric vehicles over concerns for their facilities, patrons and staff.

The ban comes after racetracks in the US and the UK have taken the same stance.

Willowbank Raceway said it could no longer allow road-registered fully electric vehicles to race or test there.

“We have been reviewing the regulations from motorsport Australia, National Electric Drag Racing Association as well as the emergency response procedures for specific vehicles,” it said in a statement.

After information provided from these departments, we have determined that the risks associated with racing and testing electric vehicles are too high.”

Willowbank Raceway said one of the unique risks was the EV batteries releasing toxic and flammable gas after a collision.

“First responders may not be able to confirm that the car is ‘off’, and doors may not unlock from the outside after a collision,” they said.

“If the driver is unconscious after an incident (including a medical incident), there is a chance the chassis is live and removing the driver would put the responders at risk.

“The car may not roll with the power disconnected and towing the car with our current equipment would be impossible.

“Electric vehicles require specific fire suppression systems such as water baths.”

The ban only applies to fully electric vehicles and Willowbank Raceway have said they “will continue to allow hybrid vehicles to run”.