Battery module having multiple fire safety features, and applications thereof

A battery module having a plurality of battery assemblies, wherein each battery assembly of the plurality of battery assemblies comprises:

• a first battery cell and a second battery cell;
• an internal plate between the first battery cell and the second battery cell;
• a first side plate, positioned along a first side of the battery module, in contact with the first battery cell;
• a second side plate, positioned along a second side of the battery module, in contact with the second battery cell;
• and
• a sensor positioned between the first side plate and the second side plate on a top of the battery module and coupled to the first side plate and the second side plate, wherein the sensor is configured to detect movement of the first side plate or the second side plate due to swelling of the first battery cell or the second battery cell.