According to VnExpress, electric vehicles are motor-driven, use less fluid than gasoline-powered vehicles, and have no complex transmission or gearbox. The battery pack inside an electric motorcycle is equipped with multiple layers of protection and can self-isolate from the rest of the vehicle.
Even with the battery pack and the electrical controller sealed or protected against moisture, deep floodwaters of about 1.2 meters, especially those with high salt content, will undoubtedly damage an electric vehicle.
As reported by Thanh Niên, electric vehicles are relatively safe when passing through deep-flooded areas, as most are equipped with water protection to IP65 or IP67 standards. These international standards indicate protection against two elements: dust and water. The higher the number, the better the protection. Modern electric vehicles typically have an IP67 rating, allowing them to be submerged in up to one meter of water for a maximum of 30 minutes without intrusion.
Electric car manufacturers often emphasize that the IP65 or IP67 standards only mean “water-resistant” and not entirely waterproof. Cases of vehicle damage due to wading through floods will not be covered by the warranty.
Electric vehicles may not show immediate signs of damage after wading through floods, unlike gasoline-powered vehicles, which can create a false sense of security for users. Commonly observed issues arise from electrical, electronic, and mechanical components that have been affected by water ingress and moisture.
Electric motorcycles have good wading capabilities, but immediate checks are necessary to prevent future issues. (Image source: Thanh Niên Newspaper)
Many believe that electric vehicles can navigate deep-flooded areas without the risk of getting stuck or st. Vietnamnet’s online newspaper once warned that this assumption is incorrect.
Electrifying, an organization specializing in electric vehicles, affirms that there is no difference between electric and internal combustion engine vehicles when it comes to driving through flooded areas. Simply put, regardless of the vehicle type, it is essential to avoid flooded areas as much as possible to ensure the safety of both the vehicle and its occupants.
Some experts even advise against riding electric motorcycles through flooded areas, as water can easily enter the battery or power pack, leading to irreversible damage and the need for immediate replacement.
Identifying and Handling Electric Motorcycle Water Ingress
Riding an electric motorcycle through flooded areas or in heavy rain is sometimes unavoidable. So, what are the signs of water ingress, and what should be done in such cases?
To prevent water ingress, users should waterproof electrical connectors. After passing through a flooded area, it is crucial to inspect the vehicle’s engine components. This ensures that dirty water does not adhere to the electrical system, spark plugs, engine, and braking system, preventing corrosion and ensuring safer future travels.
Electrical engineers have identified common causes and provided guidance:
First, the vehicle won’t start. The power is on, but when you twist the throttle, it won’t move. This is caused by a short circuit in the brake lever. The brake lever has a cut-off switch that interrupts the power to the throttle control when the brake is applied. When the vehicle is submerged or exposed to prolonged rain, this component can get wet, leading to electrical conduction and interruption of power to the throttle, resulting in the vehicle’s inability to move. To fix this, keep the vehicle in a dry place, away from rain or floods. Then, use a blower or hairdryer to dry the brake levers on both sides, and the vehicle should be operational again.
Second, smoke and sparks from electrical wires indicate a short circuit. Water conducts electricity, so flooding can cause a short circuit between the negative and positive terminals. To address this, get the vehicle out of the water as soon as possible and take it to a service center for timely repairs.
Third, if you feel resistance while pushing the vehicle, it’s likely that the controller (or IC) has failed due to water damage. When the IC fails, it shorts the three phases in the electric motor, and the magnetic force between the leaves of the magnets inside the vehicle creates a pulling force, making the wheel feel stuck and the vehicle difficult to push. The best solution is to call for roadside assistance or go to the nearest repair shop. If you have the necessary tools, you can first disconnect the three wires leading to the motor, which are the three phases of the motor. Once these wires are disconnected, you should be able to push the vehicle normally. At this point, you can either push it to a service center or replace the IC.
Fourth, if the horn, lights, and turn signals are unresponsive, it is due to water ingress causing the switches to conduct electricity with each other, making individual component control challenging. To fix this, use a blower to dry the affected switches.
Fifth, if the vehicle doesn’t respond when you turn the key, it could be due to an attomat, a device that protects the vehicle’s electrical system by interrupting power in the event of a short circuit. Another possible cause is a blown fuse in the battery pack, which also serves as a protective measure.
When riding in the rain, use a raincoat to cover the upper part of the electric vehicle. Avoid deep-flooded areas and prolonged exposure to rain and wind. Additionally, do not leave your vehicle uncovered in the rain.
Source: VTC news
