Can People Sit in the Car While Charging an Electric Vehicle?
2 Answers
In theory, people can sit in the car while charging an electric vehicle, but it is not recommended for safety reasons, especially during high-voltage charging. During charging, the car is connected to a high-voltage interface, and the vehicle's state differs from normal operation. Accidents are unpredictable, and the high voltage used for charging makes it unsafe for people to remain inside. Risk of Short Circuit When Exposed to Water: The charging port of an electric vehicle is a high-voltage contact point, making it prone to short circuits if exposed to water. Additionally, charging with water present can cause the power cable to burn out or damage the entire charging equipment. Precautions for Charging Electric Vehicles: Electric vehicles should not be charged in high-temperature or wet conditions. Charging in high temperatures combines with the heat generated during the process, significantly increasing the surface temperature of the vehicle. This can melt the protective casing of the battery or even cause the vehicle to catch fire.
As a regular electric vehicle user, I believe it's perfectly fine to stay inside the car while charging, but potential safety risks should be noted. For instance, with the electrical system still active during charging, battery management issues could lead to overheating risks; charger malfunctions might cause accidental short circuits in high-voltage circuits. I've personally witnessed an example: a friend smelled burning while waiting in their car at a fast-charging station, and later inspection revealed poor contact at the charging connector. Therefore, it's advisable to relax comfortably during slow charging with normal AC use; for fast charging or extended waits, it's better to step out and move around, especially with children or pets—safety first. Additionally, ensure windows are slightly open for ventilation during charging to prevent discomfort from poor air circulation. In summary, while technically permissible, developing good habits is more important.