A severe vehicle fire on the M5 triggered hours of traffic chaos this morning, with the southbound carriageway still closed as authorities work on recovery and safety checks. The incident began around 6:30 am when a car transporter carrying nine electric vehicles caught fire between junction 28 (Cullompton) and junction 29 (Exeter).
The fire quickly engulfed the transporter and its cargo, leading emergency services to close both directions of the motorway. This resulted in a full traffic standstill as firefighters battled the intense blaze. Devon and Cornwall Police’s Road Policing Team later shared images showing the burnt remains of the vehicle after the fire was extinguished.
By approximately 10:15 am, the northbound carriageway reopened, but the southbound lanes remain shut. Motorists are being diverted through Cullompton, where heavy congestion and slow-moving traffic have been reported. National Highways confirmed that delays of around 40 minutes beyond usual travel times are affecting the area leading up to the closure.
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A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Roads Policing Team said, “The fire is now out on the M5. The northbound carriageway has reopened, but the southbound side will remain closed while we carry out recovery operations and ensure the scene is safe, preventing any risk of reignition. We appreciate everyone’s patience.”
A representative from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue added, “We received the call at 6:38 am reporting a vehicle fire on the M5 between junctions 28 and 29. Upon arrival, we found a car transporter fully involved in flames, carrying nine electric vehicles.”
The ongoing closure and diversion are causing significant disruption for commuters, with emergency crews continuing to manage the aftermath of this large-scale vehicle fire.