Can New Energy Vehicles Be Charged in the Rain?
2 Answers
Yes; Here are the details: Firstly, charging piles comply with national standards: Whether it's public charging piles from the State Grid or private charging piles installed by major operators for car owners, they all adhere to strict regulations. They feature lightning protection, overload protection, short-circuit protection, and leakage protection. Charging piles that meet national standards use insulating materials for their casings and have a protection rating of IP54, meaning general rainwater splashes will not affect them. Additionally, charging piles are equipped with anti-leakage devices that will automatically trip and cut off power in case of leakage. For example, Star Charge's piles will automatically trip if they detect a leakage exceeding 300mA within 0.1 seconds. Recommendation: If conditions allow, it's still better to charge on sunny days. While charging piles are safe, electric vehicles are made of metal, and rainy days can bring complex situations. In case of thunderstorms, charging during rain still poses certain risks.
New energy vehicles can be charged in the rain because charging equipment and vehicle ports are usually designed with waterproof features, such as IP67-level protection, which is dustproof and waterproof, making it safe for light rain. However, during heavy rain or thunderstorms, I recommend avoiding charging as water may cause short circuits or electric leakage hazards. Before charging, check if the plug is dry and wipe it clean with a dry cloth before inserting it. It's best to charge in a garage or under a shelter. My family has used new energy vehicles for many years and often charged outdoors in light rain without any issues, but safety should always come first—avoid charging in deep water or heavy storms. Develop a good habit of regularly inspecting charging cables to ensure everything is functioning properly.