In our dreams we are driving a brand-new electric vehicle, and marveling how smooth and silent it is. But our attention is on the infotainment center, and we don’t notice a traffic-calming speed bump until we are on it. We hear a loud noise from under the car as it thumps over the hump. A scary thought flashes through our minds. Can speed bumps damage EV batteries under the floor, and are we in trouble?
How a Speed Bump Could Damage EV Batteries
We might stand a chance of damaging an electric vehicle battery if we bottom out on a rock, or a speed bump at high speed. Although battery makers design their steel or aluminum battery packs to protect them in accidents.
However, that said, Irish Times reports at least one insurance company on the Emerald Isle has voiced concerns. “The risk of fires is fortunately low for cars, irrespective of whether they are powered by petrol or electricity,” their spokesperson confirms.
“Statistics show that only 5 out of 10,000 cars fall victim to fire,” they continue. “Vehicle fires in electric vehicles can, however, be extremely tricky for the emergency services … due to battery cells burning.” The underside of the battery pack therefore might need additional protection.
Does This Mean the Underside of EV’s Need Reinforcing?
It seems logical to us that there is a limit to battery casing reinforcement from a practical perspective. Besides, as the Irish insurance company spokesperson concedes, there is no universal design standard.
Therefore, the answer to the question can speed bumps damage EV batteries depends on the particular EV battery and vehicle. We imagine the resistance offered by a street island, kerb, rock or whatever would also be a factor.
None the less, the Irish insurance company is calling for new legislation, modified crash testing, and / or under-body ‘armor’ to address this issue. If damage to the battery occurs, then devastating fires can quickly follow, they say.
Do you think the insurance company has a point, or are they taking this to extremes? Motorists can’t cover themselves for every eventuality, and that surely, is where insurance companies should come to the party.
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