Rain or Shine: Should I charge my EV in the rain?
One of the common fears most people have about electric cars is whether they can safely drive or charge them in heavy rain.For those of you who have electric vehicles, it's essential to know how to handle them during bad weather. This article will focus on queries about their solution and Essential Tips to Safeguard Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations During Monsoon Season.
Is it safe to charge an electric vehicle in the rain?
Definitely yes.the technology powering electric cars is specifically designed to protect the vehicle and drivers from any kind of electrical shock.EVs are safe to charge in all weather conditions.All major electric components of the vehicle are safely and securely tucked away and shielded to protect driver and passengers..These vehicles safe to drive in all weather conditions. Electric cars can be driven and charged in the rain. However,electric cars should not be used when roads are flooded.
Electric cars are purposefully engineered to withstand water and rain intrusion. vehicles must meet specific safety requirements by the Consumer Protection Safety Commission.In e-cars, most modern-day batteries have a much improved Ingress protection rating (IP67) that allows vehicles to be driven in water upto one meter upto 30 min without leakage.
What happens in extreme conditions ?
You must be thinking if you charge an electric car in the rain and water breaches the waterproofing what will happen ? Well, nothing.
There are several safety measures to protect you. If water gets into an EV charger, the connection will be interrupted and the current won’t flow. So you and any passengers are completely safe. The cables and charging points are all waterproofed to high standards, with extra layers of safety measures in place to direct any electrical current away from the user and down through the EV to the ground.
Some real examples and experiences of EV owners
I've just purchased a Tata Nexon EV and we're planning a road trip in the coming weeks. Can you tell me whether it is safe to charge my car at an open charging station along the way while it is raining?(Ref autocar)
Satya M, Daman
Autocar India says: It must be noted that the vehicle and charger are built to certain safety standards which protect them from dust, water or any foreign particle penetration, and these are also weather-proof. What they also get are clever on-board sensors that only establish a connection between the two when the system deems it safe to do so and the flow of current will start thereafter. If there is any obstruction or threat detected once the charging has begun, the process will be suspended automatically. So be rest assured, it is safe to charge your EV at an open public charging station, even while it is raining.However, make sure that the charging gun and the vehicle's receiver (charging socket) are dry at the time of connection, to avoid any malfunctions or delays.
Safety measures while charging in Rainy season
Charge in dry areas-The lightning and thunderstorms can cause a current surge while the electric car is being charged. This, in turn, could result in damage to the charging point as well as the internal circuits.To prevent this always charge your EV in dry areas.
Keep check on the battery-The humidity in this season may result in corrosion of mechanical bits such as battery connections and this can take a toll on the battery's life and strength.
Use dedicated charging points – Whether you’re charging at home or at a public charger, professionally installed EV charging ports are the safest way to charge your electric car.
Use certified charger-electric cars that are built with proper covering shields and protective layers that prevent any kind of short-circuit, sparks, current loss, etc. So, it is recommended that you always use an OEM-issued charger to charge your EV.
Park at dry area-To prevent corrosion and rusting park your ev at dry place.
Never use multi-plug extension cords - Always use the correct, manufacturer-approved cables and cords. Domestic cables should never be used.
To minimise the risk of water-related issues, make sure to wipe off the charging ports and connectors with a clean cloth or towel before connecting the charger.
Charging stations come with shelters or canopies that offer various benefits, including protection from weather elements and reduced exposure to water.
Ensure that the charging port and the charging gun can always be in a dry state, and keep your hands dry to avoid electric shock when plugging and unplugging the stun gun and closing the charging cover of the vehicle. In the event of severe weather
Summing UP
It’s very safe to charge an electric car in the rain as every step of the charging process has been designed to protect drivers and EV users.EV follows strict rules set by safety organisations, such as the International Electrotechnical Commission. These organisations set standards for the electric technology found in everything.Small steps can add years to your car-life and help it perform well for longer.It is vital to protect your vehicle with EV insurance from any damage that might occur in a situation beyond your control.
