There was a car on fire in Allestree this morning after a car developed an engine fault.
The car, a 58-plate Honda is suspected to have suffered an engine fault which led to a mini explosion according to neighbours. Residents in the area say they spotted the car on fire in Allestree around 11.30 am.
The incident happened on Coppice End Road in Derby according to Firefighters. The area is close to Markeaton Pub and towards the junction of Kedleston Road and Allestree Lane this morning (Monday, November 9).
Also read: Live as Derby accident forces major road closure in both directions
Firefighters attended the incident after being called around 11.36 am. Nobody was injured in the car fire.
An investigation revealed the likely cause of the fire to be an engine fault.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service statement in full after car on fire in Allestree
A spokesperson for DYFRS said: “Firefighters from Nottingham Road were called to attend a car fire on Coppice End Road in Derby at 11:36 hours today (Monday 9 December 2024).
“Crew wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire, with an investigation determining the most probable cause as an engine fault. No injuries were reported. The stop message was received at 12:20 hours and the incident left in the care of Derbyshire police to arrange vehicle recovery.”

Bus services affected after car bursts into flames close to Markeaton pub
Bus services were affected by the fire incident this morning. Bust operator TrentBarton said: “‘The Allestree’ bus service is diverting via a nearby route, leading to stops being missed near the pub. A spokesperson for the bus provider said: “Due to a car fire by the Markeaton Pub on Kedleston Road, TheAllestree is diverting via Oakover Drive in both directions.
“We will not be able to serve the following stops: Scarsdale Avenue, Allestree Lane End and Haskey Close.” The service usually travels in both directions along Allestree Lane but will now pass along Oakover Drive to Birchover Way.
Car fire in Derby sparks debate about EVs and vehicle safety
A vehicle fire in Allestree sparked concerns and drew comments from residents after flames and thick black smoke engulfed a car on a quiet street. The incident occurred near residential homes, and the dramatic scene quickly spread across local social media groups, prompting discussion and speculation.
Eyewitness Janine G. shared, “Right at the end of my street, heard the explosion—very scary. I think the lady inside got out and ran just in time!”
Photos captured by residents showed the car fully ablaze, with smoke visible from neighbouring areas.

Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The online reaction was swift, with opinions varying about the cause of the fire. While some assumed it was related to an electric vehicle (EV), others clarified it was a petrol-powered car.
Resident Paul B. confirmed, “Saw it on another Allestree page. Thankfully the occupants got out.” Another witness, Ben P., noted, “58 reg won’t be EV.”
Nicholas R., who noticed the smoke from a distance, said, “Saw smoke from my parents’ house on the green.”
Meanwhile, others like Howard B. pointed out, “It’s petrol, that thankfully is a rare occurrence.”
In response to the ongoing EV speculation, Neil M. explained, “Why does everyone assume every vehicle fire is an EV? The vast majority of vehicle fires are internal combustion engine vehicles; they have tanks full of easy-to-light fluid. Batteries are actually very difficult to get burning, although once they are, it’s a difficult fire to extinguish.”
Safety Concerns Raised
The incident also raised concerns about car maintenance. Ryan O. commented, “This can happen to any car if it’s not maintained properly. Higher ethanol content in fuel can eat away at hoses and fuel lines, putting cars and lives at risk.” Others, such as Wiggy L. and Helen T., expressed their relief that no one was injured, with Helen adding, “Wow, scary—hope the driver is OK.”
Dramatic Visuals Shared Online
Photos shared by residents captured the intensity of the fire, with one showing flames towering above the vehicle while thick black smoke billowed into the sky. Another photo taken from a distance revealed the extent of the damage as emergency services were called to the scene.

Despite the alarming situation, the community expressed gratitude that the driver managed to escape unharmed. Chris F. humorously quipped, “Hope it was carbon neutral,” while Sheila M. tagged a friend, asking if they’d heard about the incident.
Watch videos from incidents on TikTok