Faraday Future FF 91 Prototype Catches Fire at LA Headquarters
A Faraday Future FF 91 prototype recently experienced a fire incident at the company's Los Angeles satellite office. The early-stage vehicle, identified as B40, ignited within the facility, leading to an emergency response from the Los Angeles Fire Department. While the fire was contained and no injuries were reported, the event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the EV startup, which has struggled with limited production and market penetration for its flagship model. The company quickly moved to reassure stakeholders that the incident was isolated to a beta unit and would not impact current production vehicles, reiterating its focus on safety protocols and thorough investigations.
Faraday Future FF 91 Prototype Engulfed in Flames at Los Angeles Facility
On September 28, 2025, an early prototype of the Faraday Future FF 91, identified as unit B40, dramatically caught fire within the company's satellite office in Los Angeles, which serves as a key part of its U.S. headquarters. The Los Angeles Fire Department swiftly responded to the emergency at 4:37 a.m. and successfully brought the blaze under control within 40 minutes, preventing any reported injuries. Despite the rapid containment, a minor explosion was noted during the incident, prompting concerns for potential structural damage to the building's walls, although all windows remained intact. The fire's origin is preliminarily attributed to an electrical short, either within the vehicle's 12-volt system or the external power wiring in the showroom. Faraday Future has clarified that the affected prototype was an engineering and display unit, distinct from its production models. The company emphasized that the vehicle's main battery pack, composed of 18650-type cylindrical cells and in service for nearly a decade, was not the source of the fire. The majority of the vehicle's lower structure, including its subframe, wheels, and cabin floor, remained largely undamaged. Despite the setback, the company stated that most headquarters operations continued without disruption and affirmed that no recall of production FF 91 models is anticipated. Faraday Future has committed to a comprehensive investigation in collaboration with authorities and plans to enhance its safety systems and fire prevention measures across all its facilities.
This incident serves as a potent reminder of the rigorous testing and safety measures imperative in the development of cutting-edge automotive technology, particularly in the electric vehicle sector. For a company like Faraday Future, which has faced an uphill battle in establishing its market presence, transparency and swift action in addressing such events are crucial. While the fire was contained to a prototype, it highlights the importance of robust electrical system design and vigilant safety protocols throughout the development and manufacturing processes. This event could also provide valuable insights for the broader EV industry, reinforcing the need for continuous innovation in battery safety and vehicle infrastructure. Ultimately, consumer confidence in electric vehicles relies not only on performance and luxury but also on an unwavering commitment to safety and reliability, especially as these technologies become more prevalent.