Driving in the rain is always potentially dangerous, especially when the rain is accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. When it comes to electric cars and stormy weather conditions, many people often worry about it electric cars can be struck by lightning are not. Let's learn this secret through the article below Wuling EV Vietnam.
1. Can driving an electric car be struck by lightning?
One of the common misconceptions about electric vehicles is electric cars can be struck by lightning. However, the real answer is no! Electric cars are completely similar to traditional fuel-powered vehicles when facing thunder and lightning. They are completely safe when traveling in stormy weather. In the unfortunate event that the car is struck by lightning, the electric current will spread around the car and transmit to the ground.
Electric cars protect users absolutely in stormy weather conditions
All cars, including electric cars, are designed according to the Faraday cage principle. That is, the total electromagnetic field inside the car is zero. Thanks to the car's closed structure, voltage is generated only on the surface and then evenly dispersed to the ground. Furthermore, electric cars are also equipped with voltage monitoring. This helps detect overload if the vehicle is struck by lightning and automatically protects the battery, preventing the risk of circuit breakage and fire hazard. Therefore, electric vehicles are no more susceptible to lightning strikes than other types of vehicles.
2. Some safety features of electric cars
Electric cars are now equipped with a number of safety features to protect the vehicle in storms. So what are those features? We will reveal it below.
2.1. Safety of electric car batteries
One of the questions often asked is whether electric cars can be struck by lightning or not? Electric vehicle manufacturers have made safety a top priority when designing and manufacturing vehicles. The battery of an electric car is protected by a sealed box, preventing contact with harmful external factors, including water. Therefore, driving an electric car in heavy rain does not pose a risk of short circuit at all. Even the LFP batteries that companies like Wuling use for electric cars all meet IP68 waterproof standards. At the same time, it is capable of withstanding water levels up to 1 meter deep for at least 30 minutes. Ensure safety in case electric cars have to wade through water.
In addition, some manufacturers also equip a sturdy protective layer where the battery is attached, to prevent physical damage that could break the battery protective box. This ensures that the battery and electrical system of electric cars are maximally protected, reducing the risk of incidents related to lightning strikes.
Electric car batteries are absolutely protected by sealed boxes
Furthermore, charging electric cars at home or at charging stations is also guaranteed to be safe even in heavy rain conditions. Charging stations and battery charging systems have been designed with lightning protection features. In addition, it also prevents serious damage in the event of phenomena such as short circuits or sudden explosions during charging.
The battery pack of electric cars is often located under the vehicle, helping to lower the center of gravity and improve stability. At the same time, the vehicle's design also includes dustproof, waterproof and shockproof protection layers, providing durability and long-term use in all weather conditions. These measures ensure that electric cars are not affected by lightning strikes or extreme weather events.
2.2. The car's shell is insulated under the impact of lightning
The insulating shell of an electric car is the perfect answer to the question electric cars can be struck by lightning Are not. This shell is made from metal and has lightning protection features. It would function as a Faraday cage, named after British chemist and physicist Michael Faraday. The Faraday metal cage covers the entire protection area and is designed with systematically symmetrical conductors. This is certainly an ideal solution to prevent lightning strikes.
The safe insulating shell is the answer to the question of whether electric cars can be struck by lightning
In case an electric car experiences a lightning strike, electricity will be transmitted around the vehicle and down to the ground. Users should be careful to close the car doors and windows to ensure that lightning does not penetrate inside. At the same time, it protects both the vehicle and the passengers inside from the effects of electric fields from lightning. Thanks to this feature, drivers can feel completely secure when driving electric cars in weather with lightning strikes.
2.3. Electronic system designed for safety
In a car, the electronics and electrical systems are designed so that they are not connected to any power source outside the vehicle. All are equipped with lightning protection and are capable of transmitting electric field energy straight to the ground. This means that, in case the car is struck by lightning, the electronic system will not be affected. This helps minimize damage to electrical equipment in the vehicle and ensures the safety of vehicle passengers.
The devices in the electronic system are designed to be safe
In the event of a car being struck by lightning, some current will flow through the car's circuits. The voltage monitoring unit will then detect an overload condition and automatically protect the battery from overload. Thereby preventing the risks of short circuits and fires, minimizing damage.
3. Some notes when driving an electric car in the rain
To ensure absolute safety when driving in stormy conditions. Below are important notes to help you have enjoyable and safe journeys:
- Stop your car and pull over to the side of the road, wait until the lightning has passed before continuing to move.
- While sitting in the vehicle compartment, avoid contact with metal materials such as iron, vehicle walls, windows, gear lever, etc.
- Avoid driving outside when the weather is unfavorable, especially in stormy conditions.
- Regularly check the weather forecast before riding to ensure a safe trip.
- Consider installing a DVD monitor to receive timely weather alerts.
- Drive at a moderate speed, ensuring good visibility ahead and behind.
- Avoid passing vehicles in heavy rain to limit reduced visibility.
- Always wear a seat belt when driving.
- If the inside glass is foggy, it needs to be addressed immediately to ensure clear vision.
- Limit the use of electronic devices while in the car or when there is thunder outside.
- Clasp your hands together to create a continuous electrical path for your body, minimizing the risk of electric current from lightning hitting your body.
- Avoid parking under tall trees to reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.
Electric cars help you have interesting journeys
Above is an article to help you answer the question electric cars can be struck by lightning Are not. Hopefully through this article, you will have more information to be able to use electric cars safely. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to reach out Wuling EV Vietnam. We will be happy to assist and answer all your questions.
