Electric vehicles (EVs) have been gaining popularity in India, but there are still many myths and misconceptions surrounding their performance in the monsoon season. Some people believe that EVs cannot be driven in the rain, are not safe in wet weather, or that the battery cannot be charged in the rain. These misconceptions can deter people from considering EVs as a viable mode of transportation. However, the truth is that EVs are just as safe and reliable in the monsoon season as they are in any other weather conditions. They are equipped with waterproof battery packs just like how your mobile phones are. In this blog, let’s bust the unsolicited myths once and for all! Despite what some may believe, EVs are fully equipped to handle the wet weather conditions of the monsoon season in India.
Waterproof battery packs: Many electric vehicles (EVs) in India have waterproof battery packs, which means that the battery is protected from water damage. This ensures that the vehicle can continue to operate safely in wet conditions. The waterproofing of the battery pack is achieved through a combination of design and materials. The battery pack is sealed, and the cells are enclosed in a hard plastic or metal casing to protect them from water damage.
Additionally, the Battery Management System (BMS) of the EV monitors the battery’s temperature, state of charge, and other parameters and will prevent charging if there is any indication of water damage or if the battery gets too hot. Furthermore, most of the EV manufacturers in India use a special coating to make the battery pack waterproof, which helps to resist the water and dust.
It is important to note that, even with waterproof battery packs, it is still best to avoid driving through deep water or flooded areas to minimize the risk of damage to the vehicle and its components.
IP67 rated protection for electronic systems: IP67 rated protection for electronic systems in electric vehicles (EVs) in India means that the vehicle’s electronic components are protected from dust and water ingress. In this case, the “6” indicates that the vehicle is protected from dust ingress, and the “7” indicates that it is protected from water ingress. This means that the electronic systems in the EV, such as the battery management system, power electronics, and other control systems, are protected from water damage even if the vehicle is driven through deep water or submerged for a short period of time. This ensures that the vehicle’s electronic systems continue to function properly even in wet conditions, keeping the vehicle safe and operational.
It’s important to note that IP67 rated protection for electronic systems does not mean the vehicle can be driven underwater or that the charging port should be submerged in water while charging. It simply means that the vehicle’s electronic systems are protected against water ingress in case of accidental submergence or exposure to heavy rain, which makes the EV safe to drive in the monsoons.
Battery Management System: Electric vehicles (EVs) are typically equipped with a battery management system (BMS) that monitors the battery’s temperature, state of charge, and other parameters. One of the key functions of the BMS is to prevent the charging of the battery if the car is in contact with water. This is done to ensure the safety of the battery and to prevent damage to the vehicle’s electrical systems.
When the BMS detects that the car is in contact with water, it will shut off the charging process to prevent any water from entering the battery pack. This added feature makes sure that the car’s battery stays safe and dry, protecting it from water damage.
Weather-resistant charging ports: The “weather-resistant charging ports” in electric vehicles (EVs) refer to charging ports that are protected against water and other environmental elements. These ports are typically sealed and made of materials that can withstand exposure to rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation. Weather-resistant charging ports allow EVs to be charged in light rain or in a covered area, making it more convenient for the owner. It’s important to note that weather-resistant charging ports do not mean that the charging process should be done during heavy rain or that the charging port should be submerged in water while charging. It’s still recommended to avoid charging in heavy rain and to use covered charging stations to ensure safety.
Avoiding flooded areas: Driving through flooded areas can be dangerous for any vehicle, but it is especially important to avoid flooded areas while driving an electric vehicle (EV). This is because EVs are powered by electricity, and water can cause serious damage to the vehicle’s electrical systems.
If an EV comes into contact with water, it can damage the battery, the electronic control systems, and other components. This can lead to costly repairs or even render the vehicle inoperable. Additionally, driving through deep water can also cause damage to the vehicle’s suspension and other mechanical components, which can lead to costly repairs. To minimize the risk of damage to the vehicle and ensure safety, it’s best to avoid flooded areas and deep water while driving an EV. It’s always recommended to check the weather condition and the road conditions before driving an EV.
In conclusion, electric vehicles (EVs) can be driven in the monsoon season in India just like any other vehicle. They are equipped with features such as waterproof battery packs, IP67 rated protection for electronic systems, weather-resistant charging ports and Battery Management Systems (BMS) that prevent charging if the car is in contact with water. These features ensure that EVs are safe and reliable in wet weather conditions and can be driven with confidence even in the monsoon season. It is important to note that while EVs are designed to handle wet weather, it is still best to avoid driving through deep water or flooded areas to minimize the risk of damage to the vehicle and its components. Additionally, it is always recommended to check the weather condition and the road conditions before driving an EV.