Essential Safety Tips for Every EV Driver
With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming more popular on the road, knowing how to handle an emergency in an EV is crucial. Whether it’s a battery failure, an accident, or even a fire, having the right knowledge can make all the difference—especially with long holiday road trips ahead.
At Ticy City, we’re here to share expert EV safety tips from DEEPAL, a brand under CHANGAN, committed to sustainable mobility.
How Are EVs Different from Gas-Powered Cars?
Unlike traditional gas-powered vehicles, EVs don’t rely on combustible fuel, which eliminates the risk of fuel leaks. However, they do come with high-voltage lithium-ion batteries, which can still store energy even after an accident. This can lead to thermal runaway, a dangerous phenomenon where the battery overheats uncontrollably, making EV fires harder to extinguish than gasoline fires.
EV vs. Gas Cars: Key Safety Risks
| Vehicle Type | Primary Risk | Prevention Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Gas-Powered Car | Fuel leaks, fire hazard | Avoid open flames near the vehicle |
| Electric Vehicle (EV) | Battery overheating, electrical fire | Shut down high-voltage systems ASAP |
5 Critical Steps to Stay Safe in an EV Emergency
1. Exit the Vehicle and Move to Safety
- If an accident occurs, leave the vehicle immediately and keep a safe distance.
- Call emergency responders and avoid touching damaged components.
2. Cut Off High-Voltage Power
- Use insulated tools to disconnect the battery if trained to do so.
- If your EV has an “emergency shutoff” button, press it immediately.
3. Check for Battery Damage
- Look for signs of smoke, strange odors, or leaks.
- If the battery appears compromised, call a certified EV technician—do not attempt to handle it yourself.
4. What to Do If Your EV is Submerged in Water
- Contrary to myths, modern EVs have automatic safety shutoffs to prevent electric shocks in floods.
- However, if your car is submerged, exit immediately and do not attempt to restart it.
5. How to Handle an EV Fire
- EV fires burn hotter and longer than gasoline fires due to lithium-ion battery chemistry.
- Do not use water; instead, emergency responders may use special fire suppression blankets to contain the flames.
- If you notice excessive heat or smoke from your EV, evacuate immediately and call 911.
The Future of EV Safety: Tools to Keep You Protected
With technology evolving, new tools are making EV safety more effective than ever:
- EV Fire Blankets – Designed to contain lithium-ion battery fires by cutting off oxygen.
- Euro RESCUE and ANCAP RESCUE Apps – Provide first responders with EV-specific rescue instructions.
- Emergency Plug – A device that forces an EV to shut down by simulating a charging connection.
As EV adoption grows, knowing how to respond to emergencies is essential for all drivers. Whether you’re a daily commuter or planning a long road trip, these EV safety tips can help protect you, your passengers, and others on the road. Stay informed, drive smart, and be prepared.
Got more EV safety tips? Share them in the comments.
Leave feedback about this