What happens if an electric car gets struck by lightning?

We’ve all seen the dramatic scenes in movies – a car gets struck by lightning, sparks fly, and chaos ensues. But what happens in real life when lightning strikes an electric car (EV) on the road? As an electric car mechanic, this is a question I get surprisingly often from curious drivers here in the US.

While the chances of your EV being struck by lightning are relatively low, it’s still a valid concern. After all, nobody wants their brand new electric chariot to become a smoking crater on the side of the road. So, let’s delve into the science behind lightning strikes and explore how EVs fare in such an electrifying encounter.

Understanding Lightning

Lightning is a powerful electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms. It forms when positive and negative electrical charges build up in different regions of a cloud, or between a cloud and the ground. When the voltage difference becomes too high, the air breaks down, and a rapid flash of electricity travels towards the ground.

Being struck by lightning is no joke. A typical lightning strike carries an enormous amount of electrical current, often exceeding 30,000 amps, at incredibly high voltages that can reach millions of volts. This immense energy can cause significant damage to anything in its path, including trees, buildings, and yes, even cars.

EVs and Lightning

The good news for EV drivers is that the metal body of a car, including an EV, acts as a Faraday cage. Michael Faraday, a brilliant 19th-century scientist, discovered that a conductive enclosure can block electric fields from penetrating the interior. In simpler terms, the metal shell of your car acts like a shield, deflecting the lightning strike’s current around the outside of the vehicle and channeling it towards the ground through the tires.

What to Expect After a Shocking Encounter

So, if your EV does get struck by lightning, here’s what you can expect:

• A Loud Bang and a Flash: The lightning strike will likely create a loud bang and a bright flash. This might be startling, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate major damage.
• Potential Cosmetic Damage: The lightning strike might leave some visual marks on the car’s exterior, such as melted antenna parts, scorched paint near entry and exit points, or even shattered windows if the discharge travels through the defrosting wires embedded in the rear window.
• Electrical System Issues: In some cases, the electrical system might experience some damage. This could manifest as malfunctioning electronics, blown fuses, or even problems with the car’s computer systems.
• Tire Damage: The high current can travel through the tires, potentially causing damage to the sidewalls or even blowing them out entirely.

Recommended Post: Do Electric Cars Attract Lightning?

Important Safety Precautions After a Lightning Strike

Here’s what to do if your EV is struck by lightning:

• Pullover Safely: If possible, carefully pull over to a safe location away from traffic.
• Turn Off the Car and Stay Inside: Turn off the car and avoid touching any metal surfaces inside or outside the vehicle.
• Call for Help: Once you’ve ensured your safety, contact roadside assistance and inform them of the situation. Do not attempt to restart the car yourself.
• Have it Professionally Inspected: Even if your EV seems to be functioning normally, it’s crucial to have it inspected by a qualified EV mechanic. They can check for hidden electrical damage that could pose a safety risk later on.

Considerations for EV Mechanics

As an EV mechanic, here are some additional points to consider when dealing with an EV that has been struck by lightning:

• High Voltage Safety Protocols: Since EVs operate on high voltage systems, it’s crucial to follow strict safety protocols when inspecting and repairing a lightning-struck EV. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and being thoroughly trained in high voltage electrical systems.
• Diagnostic Tools and Expertise: Diagnosing lightning damage in an EV requires specialized tools and expertise. EV mechanics need access to advanced diagnostic equipment to pinpoint any electrical faults within the system.
• Battery Pack Inspection: While the Faraday cage effect protects the passenger compartment, in rare cases, the lightning strike might damage the battery pack itself. A thorough inspection of the battery pack is crucial to ensure its safety and integrity.

Be Prepared, Not Paranoid

The chances of your EV being struck by lightning are statistically low. However, it’s always good to be prepared. By understanding the science behind lightning strikes and the protective measures built into EVs, you can face such a situation with more confidence. Remember, the metal body of your EV offers significant protection, and following the safety precautions outlined

Long-Term Effects and Considerations for EV Owners

While the immediate aftermath of a lightning strike might be the most concerning aspect, there are some long-term considerations for EV owners to be aware of:

• Potential for Delayed Issues: Lightning damage can sometimes manifest in subtle ways that may not be immediately apparent. Electrical gremlins or malfunctions might develop days or even weeks after the initial strike. Therefore, it’s crucial to be observant of any unusual behaviors in your EV’s electrical systems following a lightning encounter.
• Insurance Coverage: Most comprehensive car insurance policies in the US cover lightning damage. However, it’s always wise to double-check your specific policy and deductible details before facing such a situation. Additionally, some insurance companies might offer additional coverage for specific components like the battery pack, which could be a wise investment considering the potential for lightning damage.
• Impact on Battery Health: While the Faraday cage protects the battery pack to a great extent, there’s a slight chance that a powerful lightning strike could compromise the battery’s health. This could manifest as reduced range, faster degradation, or even potential safety concerns. A qualified EV mechanic can perform a detailed battery health check to assess any potential damage.
• Maintaining Documentation: If your EV is struck by lightning, it’s crucial to maintain detailed documentation of the incident. This includes the date, time, location, weather conditions, and any immediate observations of damage. Additionally, keep copies of all repair invoices and reports from your mechanic. This documentation can be invaluable if you encounter any insurance-related issues or future problems with your EV that might be linked to the lightning strike.

Recommended Post: How long does it take to charge an electric car at 110V?

Lightning Awareness for EV Drivers

Here are some tips for EV drivers to minimize the risk of lightning strikes:

• Avoid Driving During Thunderstorms: This might seem like common sense, but it’s worth reiterating. The safest course of action is to stay off the road during severe weather events with lightning activity.
• Park in a Garage or Covered Area: If you’re caught in a sudden thunderstorm while driving, try to find a safe place to park, preferably a covered garage or parking structure. Open fields and tall trees are particularly risky locations during lightning storms.
• Keep Your Car Updated: EV manufacturers are constantly improving the design and safety features of their vehicles. Staying up-to-date on software updates and recalls can ensure your EV has the latest lightning protection measures in place.

The Future of EV Lightning Protection

The automotive industry is continuously exploring ways to improve lightning protection for all vehicles, including EVs. Here are some potential advancements on the horizon:

• Improved Faraday Cage Design: Manufacturers might investigate new materials or construction techniques for the car’s body that offer even better protection against lightning strikes.
• Lightning Strike Detection and Diversion Systems: Future EVs might incorporate sophisticated systems that can detect an impending lightning strike and divert the current away from critical components like the battery pack.
• Self-Diagnostics and Alerts: Advanced onboard diagnostics could be developed to automatically detect lightning damage and alert the driver or even initiate safe shutdown procedures.

Your Trusted Partner in EV Safety and Maintenance

As your local EV mechanic, I’m committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of you and your electric vehicle. Here’s how I can assist you:

• Post-Lightning Strike Inspections: If your EV has been struck by lightning, I can provide a thorough inspection to identify any potential damage and recommend the necessary repairs.
• EV Safety Education: I can offer valuable information on lightning safety for EV drivers and answer any questions you might have about protecting your car from electrical hazards.
• Regular EV Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for maintaining the overall health and safety of your EV. I can recommend a personalized maintenance schedule to ensure your car performs at its optimal level for years to come.

Recommended Post: 10 reasons why electric cars are better than gas

Peace of Mind on the Road

While the possibility of a lightning strike might seem daunting, the reality is that EVs are built with robust safety features. By understanding the science behind lightning and the protective measures in place, EV drivers can navigate the roads with greater confidence. With ongoing advancements in technology and lightning protection, the future of EVs looks bright and prepared to weather any storm, literally and figuratively.

Remember, as an EV owner, knowledge is power. By familiarizing yourself with the information presented in this blog post, you can make informed decisions, ensure your safety during a lightning event, and keep your electric car running smoothly for miles to come.

FAQs about: What happens if an electric car gets struck by lightning?