The operation of an electric motor does not depend on air intakes, but there are still precautions to be taken
The popularization of electric cars came along with several myths and mistrust. One that falls into the second category is about running these vehicles in floods, can they do that?
Electric cars have the battery pack on the floor, which explains part of the suspicions. But we have already said that they are well sealed with that in mind, there is even no risk of people being electrocuted if they are in the same flooded section as the vehicle.
SEE ALSO:
As the engine of an electric car does not need to admit air to work, as occurs in a combustion model, it can theoretically face floods more easily. However, manufacturers warn that it is not safe to face deep flooded stretches, after all, they are not off-road vehicles.
One factor that still limits the ability to transpose in these vehicles is the air intake of the cabin ventilation. Some components are also exposed in the engine safe and can be damaged by water.
BYD recommends only facing flooded sections where the water does not go beyond the lower edge of the body. She also suggests turning off the air conditioning before the transposition.
The recommendations after entering the water are the same as for a combustion car: accelerate gently, maintain a constant speed, do not stop halfway, do not reverse and do not turn off the car. After getting out of the water, press the brake three times to dry the discs.
In the manual of BYD’s electric cars, it is warned that after facing a flooded stretch, it is necessary to let the high-voltage components dry in the sun or with air, to evaporate the water. The brand also warns that the transmission, steering and electrical part can be damaged.
Water ingress can damage the insulation of high-voltage components. If water gets into them, one of the possible results is a short circuit. BYD indicates looking for a dealer after passing through a flood to check the car.
Plug-in hybrid or electric vehicles with a range extender can only run as electric vehicles for a few kilometers. Does this mean that they can face floods like electric floods? No, quite the opposite.
Even with the combustion engine turned off, it can be affected by water. The liquid can enter the air intake and puddle inside, and can be aspirated when starting.
In a flood, the hybrid car should be treated as a combustion vehicle, regardless of the driving mode. In addition to being able to damage the engine, it also has the high-voltage components of the electric.
