During the monsoon season, you never know when it starts to rain. A downpour that shows no signs of stopping may give electric scooter owners a pang of anxiety. So, can you trust your e-scooter during rains? The answer is YES. Electric scooters manufactured by reliable brands like Ola Electric, Ather, Bajaj, TVS, Vida, Ampere, etc are safe to use and charge during rains.
An electric vehicle’s battery is its most important (& expensive) part. It experiences constant chemical reactions to keep the scooter running, therefore it is important that the encasement of the battery is sealed well enough to withstand water seepage. Most electric scooter batteries can keep working even if they are submerged under one metre of water for up to 30 minutes. Not just batteries, but whole electric scooters, even EV chargers & EV charging cables have water protection! Also, electric scooters don’t have tailpipes/exhaust pipes. This reduces the risk of rainwater entering or flooding the system.
A lot of electric scooters undergo a ‘shower test’ where each vehicle is placed in rain-like conditions for 48-64 hours.
Electric scooters are designed to charge in rain-like conditions. The accessories that come with electric scooters are waterproof and are well insulated to prevent any issue caused by rain.
Good practices for electric scooter owners during monsoon:
1)While EVs can take on waterlogged roads to an extent, it is advised to avoid deep water.
2)Invest in a water-resistant cover for your scooter. This will protect it from rain & moisture, keeping it dry and ready for your next ride.
3)Designate a covered area for charging your scooter to protect it against rain & moisture.
Tips for charging your electric scooter during monsoons:
1)Choose covered public EV charging stations whenever possible to shield both yourself & your scooter from direct rain exposure.
2)Make sure both the charging pin & the socket are dry.
3)Always ensure that you close the charging flap after charging. This simple step prevents water from entering the charging port.
Tips for riding your electric scooter during monsoons:
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1)During rains, ditch the need for speed.
2)Test your brakes for responsiveness.
3)Maintain a safe distance between your scooter and other vehicles. This will allow for ample reaction time if the brakes aren’t as responsive as they are on dry roads.
4)Slow down while taking turns when the road is wet.
5)Ensure your scooter’s tyres are adequately inflated and possess good tread for enhanced grip on wet roads.
6)Ensure the headlight & tail lights are bright. Increased visibility is important while riding during heavy rain. Test your brake lights as well.
7)Be cautious when larger vehicles drive by as they may create significant spray when driving through puddles.
8)Schedule a service appointment before & after the monsoon season. This will ensure that your electric scooter is thoroughly checked, providing you with a worry-free riding experience.
What if your electric scooter gets stuck in deep water?
You can ride your electric scooter without any worry when it’s raining. However, some problems may arise if the scooter gets stuck in deep water. If the electrical components of your electric scooter get wet, do not plug in the charger. Let it dry completely. And that means not just the outsides but also the insides. You can use a hair dryer to blow some hot air in the gaps on the scooter’s body.
Conclusion:
It is common sense that electronic components should never be directly exposed to water. Electric scooters come with waterproof enclosures which provide resistance from water ingress. Most electric scooters available in India are ‘rain worthy’ and provide a reliable way for people to get around town during monsoons.
By embracing the above mentioned precautions & tips, you can confidently ride your electric scooter, ensuring both safety & longevity in the face of challenging weather conditions.
