A Tesla car crashed into an electric post after its battery burst into flames in Thailand.

The luxury vehicle was traversing the Rama II Road in Samut Songkhram province on September 19 when its power source reportedly caught on fire. It then crashed in front of a gas station.

Three fire trucks arrived to douse the flames which had completely engulfed the black Tesla. Authorities said it took almost an hour to bring the blaze under control because of its intensity.

Sawang Benchatham Samut Songkhram Foundation rescue officer Chusak Methakunakorn said: ‘Since the car is powered by a 100 per cent lithium battery system, it doesn’t contain fuel. Lithium material is highly combustible, it causes severe fires. Our firefighters had a difficult time.’

Firefighters said they had to cut open the battery’s impact protection plates in order to reach the source of the fire.

The Tesla driver was identified as Peeranut Songprai, 23, and a resident of Samut Sakhon province. He suffered a bump on the head and was sent to Mahachai Maeklong Hospital for treatment.

According to preliminary investigations, a sedan allegedly smashed into a motorcycle driving in front of Peeranut. He reportedly swerved to avoid the rider, causing his car to lose control and crash into the electric pole. A spark from the accident was said to be the cause of the fire.

Officials said they will continue to investigate the case.