Is It Safe to Keep a Power Bank in the Trunk?
3 Answers
It is not safe. A power bank is an electronic product composed of internal batteries, and most batteries generate heat during use and under high temperatures. If a power bank is left in the trunk and the temperature reaches 80 degrees Celsius, it can easily explode. Other items that should not be kept in the car include: 1. Perfume: Flammable and volatile alcohol is one of the main components of perfume. If the perfume bottle has a convex lens-like shape, direct sunlight can focus the light and ignite the alcohol, potentially causing an explosion. 2. Plastic toys: In a car exposed to intense sunlight, plastic toys can slowly release harmful substances into the air, which is very dangerous for people inside the car. 3. Reading glasses: Reading glasses act as convex lenses and can focus light. Prolonged focusing of light can raise the temperature at the focal point excessively, potentially damaging the car's plastic trim or even causing the vehicle to catch fire.
As an enthusiast who frequently deals with automotive safety issues, I must say that keeping a power bank in the trunk is not safe, especially during hot summers. Batteries are prone to swelling or even catching fire under high temperatures. A friend of mine once had a close call because of this—the trunk temperature can soar above 60°C in the sun, hotter than inside the car. The intense chemical reactions inside lithium batteries, combined with heat buildup and the jostling and impacts in the trunk, make them more susceptible to deformation or malfunction. I recommend avoiding this practice, particularly during prolonged parking. If you must carry one, place it in the glove compartment or under the seat, where temperatures are relatively more stable. Carrying it with you or protecting it in a backpack is also a good idea. In short, safety first—don’t risk convenience for momentary ease. Regularly check your power bank’s condition to ensure it functions properly.
I'm an average car owner who loves road trips, and I've experienced issues with power banks stored in the trunk. During a summer trip, I left one in the back, and due to the high interior temperature, it expanded and deformed. Luckily, I noticed it in time before it could catch fire. The trunk's poor sealing allows heat to build up under direct sunlight, and combined with bumpy roads, it's easy for batteries to get damaged. Since then, I always remind myself and my family to avoid storing power banks there, especially in southern regions or during hot seasons. It's safer to keep them in the front storage compartments or carry them in a bag for better protection. Additionally, the trunk's lack of airflow traps heat, which isn't good for battery lifespan. Make it a habit to regularly take them out for inspection to avoid losing small items. Safe driving involves paying attention to these details—staying mindful in daily routines can prevent trouble.
