Precautions for Electric Vehicle Operation During Heavy Rain
Korea Transportation Safety Authority Issues Safety Recommendations
The high-voltage battery and motor systems used in electric vehicles are generally equipped with waterproof and dustproof performance, typically rated at IP67 to IP68. Nevertheless, caution is necessary regarding flooding caused by heavy summer rain. Even minor mistakes can lead to significant problems.
The Korea Transportation Safety Authority strongly recommends refraining from driving during heavy rain and avoiding roads with puddles or where flooding has begun. Even if a vehicle is equipped with waterproof ratings according to international standards, unpredictable issues may arise if it is subjected to strong water pressure or impact. If you must drive through a puddle, you should proceed slowly and minimize any impact to the underside of the vehicle.
Heavy rain is pouring over the Jeju Ma pasture area in Yonggangdong, Jeju City, on the afternoon of the 18th. Photo by Yonhap News
If your vehicle becomes flooded, you should immediately turn off the ignition and evacuate to a safe location to prevent the risk of electric shock or fire. Attempting to start the engine or operate vehicle systems while the vehicle is submerged can cause serious damage to the battery and electrical components, as well as create dangerous situations. After evacuating, call 119 and contact the vehicle manufacturer's service center to arrange for safe towing.
Charging also requires caution. To prevent electric shock accidents, it is recommended to use indoor charging stations that are protected from rain whenever possible. If you use an outdoor charging station, carefully check that the charger, the vehicle's charging port, and the cable connector are dry, and always operate them with dry hands.
On the 17th, heavy rain warnings were issued, and roads and vehicles in the Wonri area of Cheongdo-eup, Cheongdo County, Gyeongbuk were flooded, prompting fire authorities and police to take action at the scene. Gyeongbuk Fire Headquarters, Yonhap News Agency
If you receive a recall notice regarding an electric vehicle defect from the Authority or a special inspection notice from the manufacturer, you must prioritize taking action. It is said that for every 10% increase in recall completion rates, accidents caused by defects decrease by 1%.
Jung Yongsik, President of the Korea Transportation Safety Authority, stated, "While electric vehicles are fundamentally designed to meet high safety standards, it is especially important for drivers to follow safety guidelines in special environments such as heavy rain or heat waves."
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