Summary:
Electric cars (EVs) are generally considered safe, but they can catch fire, especially when exposed to floodwaters. While fires in EVs are rare, they can occur under specific conditions, particularly when water, especially saltwater, interacts with the vehicle’s lithium-ion battery. Saltwater, which is highly conductive, can cause short circuits within the battery cells, leading to excessive heat and potentially triggering a thermal runaway. This can result in a fire or even an explosion. This risk is not unique to EVs. Lithium-ion batteries in phones or laptops can also catch fire when overheated. However, an EV’s larger battery pack presents a much greater hazard.
A recent incident involving a Tesla in California and a Mercedes-Benz in Seoul highlights the dangers. While these fires typically occur from accidents or other direct causes, submerging an EV in water, particularly saltwater, accelerates the risk due to the conductive properties of salt.
Tips to Prevent EV Fires in Extreme Weather
- Move the vehicle to higher ground, if possible.
- Turn the vehicle off and unplug it from charging sources.
- Protect the car with a waterproof cover, preferably one supplied by the manufacturer to fit your vehicle.
If your EV is submerged in saltwater, it’s important to have the vehicle inspected by professionals after the water recedes. The primary concern is cleaning the battery terminals to remove any salt and corrosion. These can lead to future fires if left unchecked.
In conclusion, while EV fires in floodwaters are rare, the combination of saltwater’s conductivity and the vulnerability of lithium-ion batteries makes proper care and precaution essential to prevent fires in such scenarios.
Family Handyman
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