How safe are electric vehicles?
Electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular in the UK in the recent years. This is due to an increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. However, as EV adoption increases, questions about their safety have surfaced.
This article will explore the safety aspect of electric vehicles and aims to dispel the myths surrounding them. We will explore general vehicle safety, charging infrastructure and regulatory measures.
Vehicle Safety
Electric vehicle have made significant strides in safety in the recent years. In many ways, they are on par with and sometimes even succeed the safety standards of conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Here are some safety aspects to consider:
1. Crash safety: Electric vehicles benefit from modern vehicle design. This includes the use of advanced materials and crumple zones to protect occupants in the event of a crash. In some cases, the heavy battery pack located in the vehicle can even improve stability and reduce the risk of rollovers. This is thanks to its low centre of gravity. Due to this, manufacturers have taken into account the additional mass of EVs. By supplying upgraded brakes, drivers are able to stop the car sufficiently in the case of emergency braking.
2. Fire risk: While many worry that electric vehicles can catch fire easily, this concern is generally unfounded. Extensive design work has gone into protecting the battery components. There is little evidence that there is a greater fire risk with electric vehicles. Though, firefighters have acknowledged that once EV vehicles do catch fire, they can be very hard to put out. This is due to the lithium-ion batteries that burn hot and fast, requiring more effort to be extinguished. Emergency response teams have been trained to respond to and handle EV-related incidents. Manufacturers of electric vehicles often give guidance on the best way to handle such emergencies.
3. Pedestrian safety: Due to their quiet operation, EVs are often equipped with pedestrian alert systems. This is to ensure that pedestrians can hear them approaching. This mitigates any safety concerns associated with the silent operating of electric vehicles.
4. Maintenance and repairs: EVs have fewer moving parts than a traditional vehicle, resulting in fewer maintenance requirements. Additionally, routine maintenance is less hazardous as it doesn’t involve handling flammable fuels or toxic emissions. Working with EVs and its infrastructure will need specialised training, which is why not every mechanic is qualified to work on an EV. An electric vehicles high voltage electrical systems mean that there is a risk of electrocution. This is why mechanics must undergo specialist training to work on an EV.
Charging Infrastructure
The UK’s EV charging infrastructure is expanding, with various charging options available. This includes home charging, workplace charging and public charging stations. In terms of safety, charging infrastructure in the UK is generally reliable and secure.
1. Standards and regulations: The UK governments EV charging requirements came into force in England in June 2020. Charging stations in the UK must adhere to safety standards and regulations which ensure the safety of the charging process. One change was that every new home, including those created from a change of use, with associated parking must have an EV charge point.
2. Public Awareness: The UK Government has invested in public awareness campaigns to educate EV owners and the general public about charging safety. These efforts include guidelines for safe charging at home and in public areas.
Regulatory measures
The UK government and regulatory bodies have introduced measures to ensure the safety of electric vehicles on the road. These include:
1. Type approval: Before EVs are allowed on UK roads, they must meet stringent safety standards. This includes undergoing thorough testing and certification, just like conventional vehicles.
2. Cybersecurity: As EVs become more connected and autonomous, cybersecurity is an essential aspect of safety. The government is working on regulations to protect EVs from potential cyber threats.
Electric vehicles have come a long way in regards to safety. With advanced designs, rigorous testing and robust regulations in place to ensure their safety. While challenges exist, particularly in regards to battery safety and charging infrastructure, the industry is working to address these concerns. As the UK continues to head towards its net zero target, the future of EV adoption and safety looks promising.
The Shell EV Card with Cambrian Fuelcard Services
The Shell Electric Vehicle Card is a complete fueling solution in one card. One partner for all day-to-day transport expenses from fuel and EV charging.
Shell is leading the way to make charging easier and available for everyone. Shell stations include on-site food and drink facilities, restroom facilities as well as Wi-Fi and seating areas.
Useful Links
Find out more at //www.cambriancards.com/shell-electric-vehicle-card/
To download the Shell Recharge App and see the network and charging prices, click on the links below:
//play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thenewmotion.thenewmotion&gl=GB
//apps.apple.com/gb/app/shell-recharge/id549121633
To view an interactive map of the conventional fuel network available on this card, click here: https://www.cambriancards.com/station-locator/
