A CAR caught fire at Wonthaggi Plaza this afternoon with the cause unknown, but local firefighters noting it appeared to be electrical in nature.

The car owner had not long started shopping inside the plaza when a page was placed over the loudspeaker with her rego.

Multiple calls were made to emergency services for smoke inside the vehicle.

Wonthaggi Fire Brigade arrived on scene to find the fire extinguished itself, and utilised specialist equipment to ensure the fire was out in the door cavity.

The heat melted the inner plastic door frame and the drivers seat was also damaged.

The owner was fortunately safe.