WITH more hybrid electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) on Malaysian roads, the chances of them being involved in an accident will proportionately increase.
Special knowledge may be needed by emergency workers handling these types of fire situations, and for this purpose Mercedes Benz Malaysia recently provided training for 40 Fire and Rescue Department personnel for these situations.
“Mercedes Benz Malaysia has been, and continues to be, a strong supporter of the nation’s ambition of becoming an EEV hub. Today is another example of our commitment in action. We are very happy for this opportunity to work with our national heroes from Bomba to put in place a crucial support system, thus creating a conducive ecosystem for EEVs and drivers,” said Mercedes Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner.
A total of 40 Bomba personnel were provided a full day of training covering both technical and hands-on experience to safely deal with emergencies involving hybrid and electric vehicles. Participants were hosted at the state-of-the-art MBM Training Academy in Puchong, Selangor, and were familiarised with vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz S400h, C350e and E350e.
The training focused on six key learning pillars, to ensure Bomba personnel are able to describe the types of high voltage systems available in motor vehicles, identify high voltage components located in HEVs and PHEVs, and describe MercedesBenz Post Safe features in HEVs and PHEVs.
Participants were also briefed on how to utilise the Mercedes Benz Rescue Assist App.
First responders were taught to locate and scan QR codes. The rescue app allows responders to read available information about specific vehicles, perform safety handling procedures on a high voltage (HV) vehicle and battery, and finally describe the different HV operating modes.
“Our pride is in our brand promise of delivering the best products and the best customer Experience. Taking this a step further, we uphold the highest regard for safety in every aspect. It goes hand-in-hand with our footprint in the EEV sphere, and that is why it is important to be well prepared in handling unforeseen emergencies efficiently, thus minimising the risk of damage or injury,” explained MBM, Vice-President, After Sales, Mercedes Benz Cars, Heinrich Schromm.
At the event, MBM also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI), represented by its CEO, Datuk Madani Sahari.
The MoU is aimed at fostering closer working ties between MAI and MBM, specifically in the area of sustainable talent development.
The Mercedes Benz Advanced Modern Apprenticeship Programme will be accredited by MAI.