What are the consequences of an electric car being flooded?
4 Answers
Flooding can damage the engine of an electric vehicle and even render it scrapped. Precautions for driving a pure electric vehicle through water: According to national standards and some local standards, qualified electric vehicles are considered relatively safe when driving through heavy rain or water with a depth of less than 30 cm. However, during water wading, attention should be paid to the driving speed, which should not be too fast, and sudden acceleration or deceleration should be avoided to prevent large surges. Handling methods for a flooded pure electric vehicle: After the entire vehicle is flooded, do not attempt to restart the vehicle. In this case, it should be handed over to professionals to inspect the insulation performance of the vehicle and the electrical condition of the body before any further action is taken. Because the insulation condition of the vehicle is difficult to assess at this time.
I've been driving for over 20 years, and you must never underestimate the dangers of an electric car getting flooded. The most hazardous aspect after water immersion is the battery system's susceptibility to short circuits and fires, which can instantly trigger a blaze, posing serious threats to personal safety. Immediately turn off the power, do not attempt to start or move the vehicle, and call for professional towing assistance. Avoid driving through water that exceeds half the tire height to prevent greater risks. Long-term consequences include corrosion of electronic components, leading to functional failures like headlight malfunctions or screen blackouts. Prevention is key: check weather forecasts and road conditions before driving, detour around deep water, and avoid taking risks. If flooding does occur, promptly address it by checking the sealing integrity to prevent the expansion of hidden dangers that could affect daily commuting.
From a technical perspective, I understand the consequences of electric vehicles being submerged in water, which primarily involve the battery and electrical circuits. If water enters the battery pack after submersion, it can cause a short circuit and potentially lead to a fire, posing an extremely high risk. The electric motor and control board may also be damaged, resulting in vehicle malfunction and inability to operate. After encountering water, it is crucial to immediately power off the vehicle and let the surface dry, but avoid attempting repairs yourself to prevent electric shock. Subsequently, use professional tools to test insulation and check for corrosion levels. When driving through water, it is advisable to proceed slowly through shallow areas; if the water depth exceeds the chassis, stop immediately to avoid costly repairs. During routine maintenance, inspect the battery cover seals to prevent leaks, as this can extend the vehicle's lifespan and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
As an electric vehicle owner, the repair costs after water immersion are staggering. Replacing a damaged battery or circuit can cost tens of thousands, and insurance doesn't cover it all, leaving a hefty out-of-pocket expense. If the water is deep, the car might be totaled, resulting in significant losses. After wading through water, the vehicle's performance declines—acceleration slows, and sometimes it won't move at all, requiring a tow. I make sure to avoid low-lying areas with standing water during rain by taking detours to save trouble. I also clean the chassis drainage holes monthly to prevent rust and avoid issues.
