Electric vehicles (EVs) have surged in popularity as a cleaner and more sustainable mode of transportation. However, this rise has been accompanied by various safety concerns, particularly from skeptics. This article delves into some of the common perceptions about electric car safety, examining whether these concerns are myths or facts.
Myth 1: Electric Cars Are More Likely to Catch Fire
One of the most common myths about electric cars is that they are more prone to catching fire, compared to traditional vehicles. This theory stems from their use of lithium-ion batteries, which can indeed be dangerous if they catch fire.
Fact Check:
Statistically, EVs are actually less likely to catch fire compared to traditional vehicles. Research from EV FireSafe indicates that passenger electric vehicles have a 0.0012% chance of catching fire. In comparison, there is a 0.1% chance for petrol or diesel-powered cars.
Therefore, EVs are approximately 100 times less likely to ignite. Moreover, EVs are designed with robust safety features, such as battery management systems and thermal management systems, which monitor temperature, voltage, and current to prevent overheating and fires.
Myth 2: Electric Cars Are More Dangerous to Pedestrians Because They Are Very Quiet
Another common perception is that electric cars pose a greater risk to pedestrians. This is because EVs are quieter than ICE vehicles, so pedestrians may not hear them approaching.
Fact Check:
While it is true that electric cars are quieter, especially at low speeds, regulations have been put in place to mitigate this risk. Since July 2019, all new hybrid and electric vehicles in Europe are required to have an acoustic vehicle alerting system that emits sound when the car is traveling slowly. Similar regulations also exist in the US and Japan.
Additionally, modern EVs are often equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that include pedestrian detection and avoidance features, further reducing the risk of accidents.
Myth 3: Electric Cars Are Not as Safe as Gasoline Vehicles
Some people believe that electric cars are inherently less safe than gasoline vehicles due to the complexity of their batteries and electrical systems.
Fact Check:
In fact, electric vehicles must meet the same safety standards as conventional vehicles. They undergo extensive crash testing. Additionally, EVs are often designed with additional safety features to protect the battery and electrical systems in the event of a collision.
Many EVs have achieved high safety ratings, with some models scoring the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating.
Myth 4: EV Batteries Can Spontaneously Combust
Another fear/myth is that EV batteries can spontaneously combust. While a spontaneous combustion poses a significant safety risk, is this even true?
Fact Check:
Electric vehicle batteries are designed with multiple layers of protection to prevent thermal runaway and combustion. Modern EVs use advanced lithium-ion batteries with built-in management systems that monitor and regulate temperature, voltage, and current.
In the rare event of a thermal issue, these systems can take corrective action to prevent a fire. While battery fires can occur, they are exceedingly rare. Oftentimes, fires are the result of external factors like collisions or manufacturing defects.
Myth 5: Electric Cars Are More Likely to Cause Accidents Due to Quick Acceleration
Some people argue that the quick acceleration of electric cars makes them more dangerous and more likely to cause accidents.
Fact Check:
While electric cars do have quick acceleration, this does not necessarily make them more dangerous. In fact, the instant torque provided by electric motors can make EVs more responsive and easier to control in certain situations. Additionally, the presence of advanced safety features like traction control, stability control, and ADAS helps mitigate the risks associated with quick acceleration.
However, Hertz did sell off a significant portion of its Tesla Model 3 fleet because these cars were involved in more accidents due to quick acceleration. Hertz said Tesla renters were involved in more crashes due to their rapid acceleration, which can be unfamiliar to drivers used to traditional vehicles. Research suggests that when people switch power trains, there is about a 14% increase in crashes until they adapt to the new driving style.
Electric Cars: Safer than traditional vehicles?
The safety concerns surrounding electric vehicles are often based on misconceptions rather than facts. Electric cars are generally safer or as safe as their gasoline counterparts, thanks to rigorous safety standards, advanced safety features, and robust battery management systems.
While there are unique challenges associated with EVs, such as the risk of battery fires, these are rare and well-mitigated by current technologies and regulations. As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, it is crucial to base our understanding on accurate information and ongoing research.
