Is It Dangerous to Leave Lithium Batteries in the Car During Summer?
4 Answers
Leaving lithium batteries in the car during summer is extremely dangerous, as the batteries can explode when exposed to high temperatures. Here is some relevant information about power batteries: 1. High-temperature resistance: In high-temperature tests, ordinary lithium batteries can withstand temperatures of 200 degrees, 500 degrees, and even 800 degrees. However, such extreme temperatures are rarely encountered in daily life. 2. Temperature limits: Under high-temperature conditions, significant heat fluctuations can occur inside the battery, leading to safety hazards such as explosions. The temperature limit for lithium batteries is generally set between 40-60 degrees. Most batteries are labeled with explosion-proof valves, while high-temperature-resistant lithium batteries can withstand up to 800 degrees.
I remember one summer when I left my newly bought phone on the back seat. When I returned, the car was like a steamer—the phone was so hot I couldn’t even hold it, and the battery had swollen, almost cracking. Since then, I’ve never dared to leave any lithium battery in the car. Summer temperatures can easily soar above 50°C, accelerating the chemical reactions inside lithium batteries, which can lead to overheating, swelling, or even fire. This is no small matter—items like phones and power banks are especially dangerous if left exposed to direct sunlight in the car. It’s best to carry them with you or store them in a shaded spot. I’ve also developed a habit: checking my pockets before leaving the car to avoid forgetting any electronics, sparing myself the anxiety that could ruin my trip.
The principle of lithium batteries is driven by chemical reactions, and they become unstable at high temperatures. In summer, the temperature inside a closed car can soar above 70 degrees Celsius, far exceeding the safe range, which can cause the internal electrolyte to become overly active and potentially lead to thermal runaway and fire. I always emphasize not to overlook this risk—just think about power tools or old laptop batteries left in a hot car, which are also prone to failure. The solution is simple: don’t leave lithium batteries in the trunk or on the dashboard when parking. Instead, store them in a shaded bag or cover the car interior with a sunshade. Make it a habit to keep batteries in a cooler environment—safe and worry-free.
High temperatures in summer indeed increase the risks associated with lithium batteries. The temperature inside a car far exceeds the design limits of the batteries, making them prone to overheating issues. I always make sure to carry my phone and headphones with me before driving to prevent prolonged exposure. Never take the risk of leaving batteries in the car—it's extremely dangerous.
