A major disruption unfolded on the M5 in Devon early Wednesday morning after a car transporter carrying nine electric vehicles caught fire. The blaze erupted just before 7 a.m. between Cullompton and Exeter, leading to a complete closure of the motorway in both directions.
Motorists were trapped in a standstill for hours, with some reporting cancellations and postponements of work due to the severe traffic delays. One commuter expressed frustration, saying, “We aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.”
Emergency services, including Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, responded swiftly. Firefighters arrived with five appliances and a water bowser to combat the fully involved fire engulfing the transporter. Thick smoke and intense flames could be seen in footage taken by bystanders near the scene.
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National Highways confirmed the closure between junctions 28 and 29 and stated that Devon and Cornwall Police, along with National Highways Traffic Officers, are assisting on site. All traffic is being diverted away from the incident, while authorities urge drivers to avoid the area.
The incident has caused significant congestion and disruption for commuters and residents alike as fire crews continue efforts to extinguish the blaze and secure the motorway.