- Electric and Petrol Cars Difference
- How Lithium-Ion Batteries Catch Fire
- Do Electric Cars Catch More Fire
- Prevention Tips
- FAQs
The inevitable rise of electric cars has taken the automobile industry by storm. Over time, environmentally friendly vehicles have undergone significant advancements, addressing various challenges encountered along the way. Low range, a limited number of charging stations and other issues have all been put to rest with new advancements kicking in. Despite these advancements, some concerns regarding the quality of EVs persist. For instance, a common query among potential EV owners is regarding electric vehicle fire risk.
We will do a detailed analysis of electric vehicle fire risk and figure out the reality behind this common concern.
Electric Vehicle Fire Risk
The rise of environment-friendly vehicles has seen an increase in the number of solar cars and EVs. While solar cars are still in the development phase, electric vehicles have gained widespread traction in the automotive market. A perfect substitute for petrol cars, electric vehicles address issues like rising petrol prices in the UAE and around the world, carbon emissions and others.
However, the use of lithium-ion batteries raises some eyebrows. The nature of fires in electric cars differs from those in petrol-powered vehicles.. Consequently, the extinguishing procedure requires some additional measures to put the fire out. Moreover, lithium-ion batteries remain more prone to re-ignition when left unattended for long periods.
Difference Between Electric and Petrol Cars
When doing a comparison between electric vs petrol cars, both the types vary in more ways than one. For instance, petrol cars use an engine whereas electric cars are powered by a battery. However, when it comes to the electric vehicle fire risk, EVs do not have higher chances of fire.
Fire in petrol vehicles generally results from damaged fuel pipes. In this case, petrol or diesel dips on the engine – igniting a fire. Moreover, faulty electric wires or rupture in the exhaust pipe can also lead to fire. The risk is greater during hot temperatures. Therefore, drivers must know the tips to protect cars from fire in rising temperatures to combat the situation.
On the other hand, an EV battery is one of the major causes behind electric cars catching fire. A damaged or worn-out battery, lack of maintenance, or use of inappropriate material can all cause a fire in an EV. Additionally, fire can be a result of manufacturing faults.
Either way, EVs do not carry a higher risk of fires. However, negligence at the owner’s end can leave any kind of vehicle vulnerable to fire and other issues.
How Lithium-Ion Batteries Catch Fire
The car battery evolution has seen lithium-ion batteries replace the conventional types. These are particularly used to power electric vehicles. However, lithium-ion batteries can sometimes catch fire if they are damaged or while charging.
These advanced types of batteries remain prone to a chain reaction known as ‘thermal runaway’. Tiny metal filaments from the metal can form inside a battery. Usually, this happens due to extreme charging or discharging. Consequently, this leads to a localised heating event inside the battery.
The heat generates more exothermic reactions – making the whole battery more hotter. All these reactions can lead to a fire in an electric car. Additionally, different batteries house various chemical mixtures that require different approaches to put the fire out.
It is therefore a viable option to ensure maintenance and follow the ways to maximise EV battery performance to get the best out of the component.
Are Electric Cars More Likely to Catch Fire
The electric vehicle fire risk is a real thing but the likelihood of this happening isn’t any greater than petrol cars. Maintenance, use of appropriate materials and good driving habits can all minimise the fire risk in both of the vehicles.
Additionally, all vehicles go through a safety test before they are released. The testing phase ensures that the vehicles are road-ready and do not pose a safety threat in any way. Therefore, people can opt for these environment-friendly vehicles without worrying about the fire hazard. Just be sure to follow the maintenance schedule and enjoy a safe ride.
Tips to Prevent Electric Vehicles from Catching Fire
The electric car experience continues to enthral vehicle owners. However, some tips can come in handy to make the driving experience more secure and minimise the fire risk. Listed below are some tips to minimise the electric vehicle fire risk.
- Minimise electric vehicle’s exposure to heat as this can initiate exothermic reactions and lead to a fire.
- Ensure battery maintenance and watch out for any signs of damage. If the battery is not in good condition, replace it at the earliest.
- Avoid driving over potholes and sharp objects. There are many reasons to avoid potholes while driving. It can cause severe damage to the battery and make it more prone to fire and other issues.
- Always use vehicle-specific and authorised chargers. Low-quality chargers can affect the battery’s health in many ways. Moreover, they can cause premature deterioration of a battery.
- Let the electric vehicle cool down before plugging in the charger. The cells inside a battery remain relatively hot after a trip. Therefore, charging in such conditions may trigger unwanted chemical reactions.
FAQs
Do Electric Cars Catch Fire More Than Gas-Powered Vehicles?
It’s a myth that electric cars catch fire more often than petrol cars. EVs, like other vehicle types, go through a safety test before being released in the market. Moreover, lack of maintenance, worn out or damaged parts can cause issues like catching fire in any type of vehicle.
Do A Lot of Electric Cars Catch Fire?
No, it’s a common misconception about electric vehicles. EVs are just as safe as any other vehicle type. The vehicles are fully tested before their release and safe to drive in.
There you have it, the reality behind the electric vehicle fire risk. Vehicles of any type remain prone to fire and other issues if not maintained properly. Electric vehicles, with all the technological advancements, are great eco-friendly mobility options.
Be sure to follow the EV maintenance tips to get the best out of the vehicles. Additionally, if your EV encounters any issue en route, the many EV roadside assistance services can provide professional assistance.
Also, know the prevention tips for car emergencies to avoid fire-related and other incidents.
As electric cars catching fire the most remain a myth, you can opt for any EV without worrying about the hazard. Browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE and select from a wide variety of EVs listed.
Stay connected to dubizzle’s auto blog to learn electric car fire facts and figures and more.
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