Hurricane season is upon us. From June to November (with the peak of the season being mid-August to mid-October), people around the country are suffering the damages caused by these storms. This year has been particularly catastrophic in terms of hurricane and flood damage, especially in Florida. Those with electric vehicles, it turns out, need to take extra precautions because saltwater and EVs are a dangerous combo.
How Saltwater Affects EVs
Saltwater can be incredibly damaging to electric vehicles. When saltwater comes into contact with the electrical components of an EV, it can cause a short circuit. This can lead to overheating, which can actually cause the battery to catch fire.
The damage caused by submerging an EV in saltwater does not disappear once the water recedes. Saltwater can remain trapped within the vehicle's electrical components, increasing the risk of fire.
Preparing Your EV for a Hurricane
If you live on the coast or other flood-risk areas, here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to protecting yourself and your electric vehicle:
- Move your vehicle to higher ground. This is the best way to protect your vehicle from catching on fire in flooding.
- Make sure your vehicle is charged ahead of time. Do not try to charge your vehicle during the storm.
- Watch the weather reports closely to make sure you have the most updated information available.
- Park your vehicle far away from anything combustible.
- Do not charge your EV if it has come into contact with flood water. Get it inspected by a professional first.
While this is a very real danger, it shouldn’t necessarily stop you from purchasing an EV. Here are some of the benefits of EVs:
- Lower fuel costs
- Reduced emissions and less pollution
- Potential tax incentives for driving an EV
- Reduced maintenance costs
It’s up to you to decide if the benefits outweigh the risks. By taking the necessary precautions during hurricane season, EV owners can enjoy the benefits of their vehicles with peace of mind.
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Hurricane season is upon us. From June to November (with the peak of the season being mid-August to mid-October), people around the country are suffering the damages caused by these storms. This year has been particularly catastrophic in terms of hurricane and flood damage, especially in Florida. Those with electric vehicles, it turns out, need to take extra precautions because saltwater and EVs are a dangerous combo.