One of the things you may want to consider when buying an electric vehicle is the risk of a battery fire. Lithium batteries, used in many electric cars, have been known to catch fire, without any obvious external cause. The problem with lithium batteries is the internal chemical composition can create a fire hazard.
How Bad is the Fire Risk for EVs?
Sometimes the vehicle is not the cause, but the way the battery is being recharged is the problem. If an electric vehicle (EV) is left unattended in a recharging station, it can overcharge. This may cause a super heating condition that creates a fire.
When this happens, it is possible that the garage the car is in and the rest of the house will catch fire as well. The unique configuration of lithium batteries requires special firefighting skills to put out a fire. Adding lots of water will not stop a lithium battery fire.
Hybrids are Worse
The statistics are surprising. EVs have about 25 fires per 100,000 cars. Gasoline fires are more common, with about 1,500 per 100,000 cars. Hybrid vehicles, which are a combination of electric and gasoline-powered, have the highest risk of fires at 3,475 per 100,000 cars.
In all cases, it’s better to have auto insurance that considers fire risks as a covered peril under your auto policy. Verify your coverage by talking with your agent at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA.
Battery fires are very dramatic in electric vehicles because they are difficult to put out. Special firefighting is needed. These accidents make headlines more frequently than coverage of a gasoline fire. The public is more used to gasoline fires and yet, it is surprising that hybrids have the most risk. Did you know that?
Consult with your agent at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA, for all your auto insurance needs.