Automotive
As Hurricane Helene leaves behind unlucky destruction throughout the east of the USA, electric vehicle (EV) owners are being warned a few serious yet often missed danger, the danger of fires attributable to saltwater flooding. Florida officials, including Governor Ron DeSantis, advised EV drivers to maneuver their cars to higher ground last week in preparation for the storm. While fires related to electric vehicles are rare, the mix of saltwater and EV batteries can create hazardous conditions if preventive steps aren’t taken.
Why Saltwater Is a Threat to EVs
Unlike traditional gas-powered cars, electric vehicles depend on lithium-ion batteries that, under certain conditions, can catch fire. Saltwater, on account of its ability to conduct electricity, poses a singular risk to those batteries, especially if the water manages to penetrate the protective seals designed to maintain moisture out. Once inside, saltwater can create short circuits between the battery’s terminals, resulting in overheating and potentially causing a dangerous phenomenon called thermal runaway.
In easy terms, thermal runaway is when heat from a brief circuit spreads through the battery cells, leading to an uncontrollable chain response. Within the case of saltwater exposure, even after floodwaters recede, the salt residue left behind can proceed to pose a risk, making it essential for EV owners to have their vehicles inspected in the event that they’ve been submerged.
Real-Life Examples of EV Fires After Hurricanes
The specter of saltwater-induced fires in EVs became particularly apparent during and after major storms lately. Following Hurricane Ian in 2022, which ravaged parts of Florida, as much as 5,000 electric vehicles were compromised, with 36 confirmed fires. Similar incidents occurred after Hurricane Idalia, prompting further concern and investigations by each automakers and federal safety agencies.
It’s essential to notice that this risk appears to be specifically linked to saltwater flooding, not freshwater. For instance, no significant issues were reported in California after heavy rainfall and freshwater flooding earlier this yr. Saltwater’s unique ability to conduct electricity appears to be the driving factor behind these fire risks.
What EV Owners Should Do Before and After a Storm
1. Move Your Vehicle to Higher Ground
One of the best method to prevent potential battery damage is to avoid floodwaters altogether. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, together with safety officials, has stressed the importance of relocating EVs to areas less prone to flood. Parking your vehicle on elevated ground can significantly reduce the danger of it being submerged in saltwater.
2. Keep Your EV Charged Before Power Outages
Identical to conventional automotive owners are advised to maintain their gas tanks full before a storm, EV owners should ensure their vehicles are fully charged ahead of potential power outages. While charging options could also be limited during and after a hurricane, this straightforward step can provide flexibility in case you could evacuate or travel.
3. Post-Flood Safety Measures
In case your EV does change into submerged in water, safety doesn’t end once the floodwaters recede. Tesla and other automakers recommend towing your vehicle at the very least 50 feet away from any structures or flammable objects until a licensed mechanic can inspect it. This precaution is critical because fires can occur long after the vehicle dries out, as salt residue may linger within the battery.
How Likely Are EV Fires?
Although instances of EV fires attributable to saltwater flooding are rare, they occur regularly enough for safety officials to take notice. Since Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been studying the phenomenon, but exact statistics remain hard to return by. Nonetheless, with more EVs on the road today, the variety of cases is anticipated to grow, especially in coastal areas liable to hurricanes and saltwater flooding.
What the Future Holds for EV Safety
As electric vehicles proceed to realize popularity, the automotive industry is working to deal with safety concerns, including those related to flooding and battery integrity. The NHTSA is currently exploring updates to battery safety regulations aimed toward reducing risks, particularly in high-risk flood zones. Moreover, carmakers have designed their battery packs with insulation and barriers to reduce moisture infiltration, though no system is foolproof, especially in extreme conditions like hurricanes.
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This Article First Appeared At www.automotiveaddicts.com
