Planning to purchase an EV? Here's how to ensure it never catches on fire

As festival season rolls around, many people are excited about purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) not just for the eco-friendly benefits but also for the attractive discounts. With the growing popularity of EVs — a third of car-aspirants plan to buy an EV this year, reveals a Way2News survey — one lingering concern that might cross your mind is the risk of the car catching fire. While EV fires are rare, they can still happen under certain conditions, so it's essential to understand the risks and know how to prevent them.

Why do they burn?

First and foremost, EV fires are most commonly linked to the lithium-ion batteries that power these vehicles. When an EV is involved in a crash, or if its battery is physically damaged in any way, there is a risk of what is known as "thermal runaway." This happens when heat inside the battery cannot dissipate quickly enough, causing the cells to overheat and, in rare cases, ignite.

Thankfully, EV manufacturers extensively test vehicles to minimise this risk, and incidents are exceedingly rare. In fact, statistics show that electric car fires are significantly less frequent than fires in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. A study from Sweden's Civil Contingencies Agency found that only 0.004% of EVs caught fire in 2022, compared to 0.08% for ICE cars.
As such, the ambient temperature can also play a significant role in the safety and performance of EV batteries. Extreme heat can be particularly dangerous, as it increases the likelihood of the battery cells overheating and entering thermal runaway, which may lead to a fire. High temperatures can accelerate the chemical reactions within lithium-ion batteries, making them more prone to malfunctions.

Therefore, it is important to avoid exposing your EV to prolonged high heat, such as parking it under direct sunlight for extended periods, especially in regions where temperatures soar during the summer. Regular maintenance of the battery's cooling system is also critical, as it ensures the battery stays within a safe operating range, preventing overheating and extending the battery's lifespan

Charging and flooding

Another key risk comes from improper charging practices. Overcharging the battery, or using poorly regulated, non-certified charging stations, can cause the battery to overheat. It's crucial that EV owners use certified, high-quality charging stations and follow manufacturer recommendations to avoid overloading the system. Many modern EVs come with software that automatically stops charging once the battery is full, but it’s always a good idea to avoid prolonged charging beyond the battery's capacity.

Water exposure can also be hazardous for EVs, particularly in flood-prone areas. While most EVs are designed to handle a fair amount of moisture, saltwater exposure, such as during coastal floods, can create serious problems. Saltwater can corrode the battery and create short circuits, which might lead to fires long after the vehicle has been submerged.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, for example, there were reports of submerged EVs catching fire even days after the floodwaters receded. If you live in an area prone to flooding, take extra precautions by parking your EV in a sheltered area, and if your car has been exposed to water, have it inspected immediately.

Those annoying software updates are important!

It’s also important to stay updated on any recalls or software updates. EVs, like any other technology, may occasionally be subject to recalls due to manufacturing defects or safety concerns. Being proactive in checking for recalls can prevent potential issues from becoming dangerous. For instance, some EV models have had recall campaigns specifically to address battery-related risks, ensuring that any faulty cells are replaced before they pose a threat.
Finally, while EV fires may capture attention when they happen, it’s essential to keep them in perspective. Despite the fear surrounding them, EV fires are much less common than fires in gasoline-powered cars. The data shows that EVs are about 80 times less likely to catch fire than their gasoline counterparts.

When considering an EV purchase, focus on the safety features and proactive measures in place to keep you and your vehicle safe. With proper charging, regular inspections, and staying informed, you can confidently enjoy the benefits of your new EV this festive season!