Are Electric Vehicles Safe? A Look at Safety Features and Regulations

Introduction

As electric vehicles shape India's future, many fear for their safety. Despite this, many Indians are switching from traditional cars to EVs. Thus, India is on the right path to achieving the 'Clean India, Green India' dream. Yet, it is necessary to address the questions around the EV topic.

Before going through the concerns and queries, one must know why we must go electric. There are two main reasons. Firstly, everyone knows fossil fuels are going to run out someday. It is just a matter of time. We must be ready for the day we cannot choose between fuel-based and electric cars.

Secondly, saving the planet is essential. Every time you start a petrol or diesel car, you harm the planet. The damage may be tiny or huge. With climate change on the horizon, it is high time that we contribute our best to Mother Earth. A large number of the population using EVs will mean so much to planet earth. The electric vehicle industry will also create more jobs, ensuring growth & prosperity.

Now that we have answered the 'Why EV?' question, let us address the concerns, myths, and issues around electric vehicles.

Is it too stealthy?

Electric vehicles are quieter than typical ICE vehicles. Many people argue they are unsafe for pedestrians with limited hearing. To address the concern, EV makers added engine sounds via a speaker. Electric cars will be on the road in large numbers in the upcoming years. In that case, we may need to adjust our traffic rules. We should consider their quietness as a good thing. Because who wouldn't love quiet traffic, right? With so many cars on our roads, noise-free vehicles will significantly impact us. It’s these little things that can make our daily commute peaceful.

Are lithium-ion batteries dependable?

The latest electric vehicles have better battery management and cooling systems. They prevent heating of batteries. Modern lithium-ion batteries in EVs undergo extreme testing. This ensures they can perform longer at high temperatures. The batteries in EVs are properly secured. So, you don't need to worry about safety.

What if my car runs out of charge?

A key concern for EV buyers is charging their vehicle if it runs out of power while traveling somewhere. Luckily, India's journey towards green mobility is on the right path. India's electric vehicle charging infrastructure is steadily evolving. It will grow by multiple times over the years. In the coming years, if not months, you can see as many charging stations as fuel stations.

Electric cars are heavier.

Electric cars are heavier than petrol or diesel cars. But is it a con? In fact, it is quite the opposite. Tests show that EVs are safer in a crash. Their low center of gravity prevents rollovers. Also, modern electric cars come with excellent crash-prevention systems. The safety features included in the vehicle keep your mind at ease.

Are EVs all-weather automobiles?

Electric vehicles can be used in all weather conditions. As said earlier, they are designed to manage harsh weather conditions. However, it is advisable not to drive them at high water levels. Because there is a risk of short-circuiting, it is also recommended not to charge your vehicle during thunderstorms, as it may lead to a power surge. Like any other vehicle, proper vehicle care will protect you and your car from mishaps.

Are EVs pacemaker-friendly?

Electric vehicle chargers are high-frequency gadgets. Many are worried that using them near cardiac devices may cause malfunctions. Researchers proved it's safe for people with cardiac devices to be near EVs. However, do not keep these devices directly over the charging elements. Please do take the expert opinion for further insights.

Advanced safety features

Safety isn't a feature but a necessity in automobiles. Modern EVs have many safety features, including ABS, regenerative braking, and blind spot monitoring. Some also have Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These systems help avoid collisions, warn of lane departures, and apply emergency brakes. Drivers should be aware of these safety features before taking the vehicle out on the road.

Let’s wrap it up

Electric vehicles will surely lead Indian mobility to an all-new era. Sooner or later, we will all have at least one electric car in our homes. Despite safety concerns, the Indian EV industry will grow fast in the next decade. As EVs evolve, their safety will also evolve. But it is fair to say every automobile has its own set of drawbacks. It is up to us to handle them in a way that is not harmful. Electric energy, if harnessed right, will bring in prosperity in the years to follow. Also, the increase in EV usage will also make India less dependent on oil imports. Right now, India is one of the top five oil importers in the world. With the young force India has in its arsenal, the EV industry is all set to boom.