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Are Electric Vehicles Dangerous In An Accident?

There has been some talk lately about lithium-ion batteries and whether they pose a danger. Lithium batteries are the most common rechargeable batteries and power many devices and appliances, such as cell phones, laptops, and electric cars. Although generally safe, lithium batteries can explode or burst into flames, but only if they are exposed to the wrong conditions. These could include…

  • Manufacturing defects
  • Use of low-quality materials
  • Product design defects
  • Incorrect assembly of the battery
  • Lack of proper insulation
  • Inadequate ventilation
  • Improper storage
  • Improper charging
  • Exposure to extreme temperatures
  • Physical damage

Although it is very rare for a lithium-ion battery to malfunction, it’s fair to wonder if electric vehicles are more prone to catching fire in an accident or even exploding?

CAN AN EV BATTERY PACK EXPLODE?

The good news is electric vehicles are no more likely to explode or catch fire than any other type of vehicle. Manufacturers prioritize battery safety during production, and all electric vehicles have cooling systems to prevent fire or explosion. However, high temperatures, crashes, or overcharging could cause an electric car battery to ignite.

HOW COMMON ARE ELECTRIC FIRES?

Fires in electric vehicles are not very common at all. EVs have just a 0.03 percent chance of catching fire, while an internal combustion engine has a 1.05 percent chance of igniting.

WHAT ABOUT THE ADDED WEIGHT OF EVS?

Although EVs generally weigh more than traditional cars due to the weight of the batteries, it has been found in crash tests that electric vehicles appear to perform better. This seems to hold true for real-life accidents as well. Injury claims for electric vehicles were about 40% lower than accidents involving identical gas-powered models, according to data from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI).

The extra weight of EVs may also be responsible for better accident results. Research shows that occupants in heavier vehicles experience less force in a crash, leading to fewer injuries.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES ARE A GREAT CHOICE ALL AROUND

Not only are EVs great for the environment, but they are also safe for us to drive. EVsDirect.com performs a rigorous 150-point inspection on all of our vehicles (including batteries), so you can rest assured that the used electric vehicle you have your eye on is safe and sound. Check us out at EVsDirect.com. Drive Clean, Drive Green. Your Electric Vehicle, Delivered.