Electric Vehicle Safety Research Guide
As more and more drivers consider making the switch to an all-electric vehicle, there are naturally a number of factors that they may consider when researching the right EV for their lifestyle. No matter if you’re commuting to work as an individual or you’re transporting your family across the country for vacation, safety is a universally important component of any vehicle. While you’re probably familiar with the remarkable efficiency and impressive performance of EVs, you might find yourself wondering about the safety of this growing segment of vehicles. Are EVs safe? Our team at the Germain Motor Company has the answer! We’ve researched this topic in great detail and are excited to share all of the impressive safety-related features found on EVs. Let’s dive right in!
EV Safety Compared to Traditional Vehicles
In their early years, many buyers were apprehensive about the safety of electric vehicles. Early EVs sometimes made headlines for concerns surrounding electrocution dangers, inextinguishable battery fires, and high operating temperatures. As EVs became more mainstream, these concerns began to fade in the eyes of potential buyers. Manufacturers have gone to great lengths to ensure that their electric vehicles are every bit as safe as traditional vehicles.
In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently conducted a study related to EV safety. Based on data from nine individual models sold from 2011-2019, the team of experts at the IIHS took a closer look at the injury, collision, and property damage liability claims for this range of vehicles. They were able to conclude that injury rates for EVs were over 40% lower than those of identical, conventional models*. This evidence points to EVs actually being safer than traditional vehicles!
Why Are EVs Safer than Gas Models?
Fewer Explosive Fluids
- Gasoline is inherently flammable and explosive due to high concentrations of hydrocarbons. In certain collisions, this creates the potential for the fuel system to rupture and catch fire. Although EV batteries can also pose a fire risk in the event of a collision, they’re generally less volatile compared to a full tank of gas.
Robust Construction
- Today’s EV batteries are typically positioned low in the center of the vehicle’s chassis. Compared to an internal combustion engine mounted at the front of a conventional vehicle, an EV is able to better absorb and dissipate energy during an accident. This can lead to fewer injuries for the occupants inside the vehicle.
Greater Stability and Reduced Rollover Risk
- Related to the prior topic, EVs generally have a much lower center of gravity thanks to the positioning of the onboard battery. This means that they provide superior cornering abilities that can help drivers react more safely to unexpected obstacles or dangers encountered on the road. They’re also less susceptible to rollovers.