Volvo XC40 explosion: David Butler, a granddad, saves 19-month-old toddler from hybrid vehicle fire

A brave motorist was badly burned when he rescued his 19-month-old granddaughter from the back seat of his new hybrid car as it exploded in flames.

Retired engineer David Butler, 67, was driving with his wife Anne, also 67, and with toddler Lilly strapped in a child seat behind them.

Mrs Butler saw smoke and turned to see the rear seat ablaze “as if someone had poured petrol on a barbecue”.

Mr Butler stopped, jumped out and tried to reach Lilly but the rear door of the Volvo XC40 would not open.

Despite the flames and thick smoke, he got back into the front seat and managed to reach around and free the toddler.

In a social media post, Mr Butler said: “Fortunately, I managed to feel for the seat release and dragged her out. As I did this, the hybrid battery exploded, igniting the fuel tank and filling the car with flames. I managed to get out but was on fire.”

Two road workers helped Mr Butler pull his granddaughter free.

He was taken to hospital with 60 per cent burns to his arm, head and back.

Lilly also needed hospital treatment.

Her mother Sasha Caffrey, 32, partner of the Butlers’ son Terry, 32, wrote: “You saved our little girl. you are our hero and we hope you get better real soon.”

The £40,000 ($77,000) Volvo XC40 is a “mild hybrid” which has a small battery and electric motor, used to boost the petrol engine.

The battery recharges by harnessing energy from the brakes.

Describing Monday’s incident, in Hindley Green, Greater Manchester, on Facebook, Mr Butler said he had only taken delivery of the car the previous week.

“My granddaughter is in a children’s hospital and I’m in a burns unit,” he said.

“So, if you still think that electric cars are safe, then think again.”

Volvo has offered support and is investigating. a spokesman said: “We are taking this incident very seriously”.