Debunking EV Myths – Part 3: EV batteries are so dangerous !
The myth that electric vehicles (EVs) catch fire more frequently than regular internal combustion engine (ICE) cars is not supported by empirical data. Actually – the opposite is the case. The chance of a car catching on fire are much higher for regular combustion engines than for electric vehicles.
Here is a simple table showing these risks:
| Cause | Combustion Engine Vehicles | Electric Vehicles |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Compartment Fires | High likelihood | Low likelihood |
| Fuel System Malfunctions | High likelihood | Very low likelihood |
| Electrical System Faults | Moderate likelihood | Moderate likelihood |
| Battery Thermal Runaway | N/A | Low likelihood |
| External Fire Incidents | Similar likelihood | Similar likelihood |
Lower Fire Risk
Studies have shown that EVs have a lower risk of catching fire compared to ICE vehicles. For example, a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that the incidence of fires in EVs is lower than in conventional vehicles on a per-vehicle basis.
Battery Safety Features
Electric vehicle manufacturers have implemented stringent safety features to minimize the risk of battery fires. These include robust battery management systems (BMS), thermal management systems, and structural protections to prevent thermal runaway and mitigate fire risks.
- Source: Tesla Battery Safety Features
Stringent Testing and Regulation
EVs undergo rigorous safety testing and comply with stringent regulations to ensure their safety. Regulatory bodies such as the NHTSA and the European Commission have established safety standards specific to electric vehicles to address concerns related to battery safety and fire risk.
The fire risk topic has been reported throughout the media, but somehow it’s still stuck in peoples minds.
Sources:
- EVs much less likely to catch fire: https://www.driving.co.uk/car-clinic/are-electric-cars-more-likely-to-catch-fire-than-petrol-and-diesel-cars/
- EV fire risk very low: https://core.verisk.com/Insights/Emerging-Issues/Articles/2023/August/Week-4/Electric-Vehicle-Fire-Risk
- ICE cars are a much higher fire risk: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/nov/20/do-electric-cars-pose-a-greater-fire-risk-than-petrol-or-diesel-vehicles
