Is it dangerous to charge an electric vehicle in direct sunlight?
2 Answers
Apart from the rise in interior temperature, there are no other dangers associated with charging an electric vehicle in direct sunlight. The high temperatures generated under direct sunlight only affect the surface temperature inside the vehicle and do not directly interact with the battery pack, nor do they cause the internal temperature of the battery pack to rise. Therefore, there is no risk of spontaneous combustion. Additionally, before electric vehicles leave the factory, all battery packs undergo national safety certifications, providing a certain level of assurance. Moreover, most pure electric vehicle battery packs are equipped with thermal management systems that can autonomously regulate the temperature of the battery pack, ensuring it operates within an appropriate range. Thus, even when charging in high temperatures, there is no danger. However, the interior temperature can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius, so flammable items such as alcohol should not be left inside the vehicle. Charging precautions: Turn off the vehicle's power while charging; master the correct charging time; avoid overcharging or over-discharging the battery.
From my experience in maintenance, charging an electric vehicle under direct sunlight does pose some risks. The main reason is that high temperatures can increase internal battery pressure, especially for lithium-ion batteries which are prone to overheating. This may lead to thermal runaway or premature aging. Modern vehicles usually come with a Battery Management System (BMS) to monitor temperature, but extreme environments still increase potential failure rates, such as slower charging speeds or accelerated battery degradation. I recommend avoiding charging during midday scorching heat whenever possible – opting for shaded areas or underground parking garages is better and can extend battery life. For frequent use in high-temperature regions, regular inspections of the vehicle's electronic control system are crucial to prevent issues proactively. Small daily habit adjustments, like providing shade during charging, can make your car safer, more durable, and more environmentally friendly.
