An electric car burst into flames in the city center

While the safety of electric vehicles remains debated, emerging footage has alarmed electric car owners.

An electric car burst into flames in the city center

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in the automotive market is undeniable. With growing environmental concerns, many individuals now opt for these technologically advanced alternatives over conventional combustion engines, believing they are not only greener but also safer. However, it's essential to recognize that EVs, like any other mode of transport, come with their own set of risks. A recent incident in Chengdu, China, serves as a stark reminder of this reality.

In Chengdu, a shocking event unfolded when an electric taxi, believed to be manufactured by Geely, spontaneously ignited while amidst traffic. While EV giants such as Tesla, BYD, Xpeng, and Geely have significantly enhanced the safety measures in their vehicles—Tesla's collision prevention feature being a noteworthy example—hazards still persist. Notably, the batteries in electric vehicles, which are intricate and potentially perilous, have been a point of concern.

 An electric car burst into flames in the city center

Though advancements have been made to ensure the batteries' safety, instances of them catching fire, particularly post-collision, have been documented. In this Chengdu incident, the burning electric taxi not only led to an extensive traffic disruption but also presented a harrowing scene. Eyewitnesses captured footage showing intense flames rising over two meters high from the vehicle, accompanied by faint sounds of explosions. These blasts hurled car parts airborne, producing thick plumes of black smoke. Thankfully, emergency responders arrived promptly to control the blaze, ensuring no injuries resulted from the ordeal. It's speculated that the taxi belonged to Maple Auto, a subsidiary of the Geely Auto Group. As of now, the company has remained silent on the matter, leaving many awaiting further clarification.

This incident underscores the gravity of fires originating from electric vehicles. Such infernos can be intensely fierce, sometimes even culminating in explosions. These blazes also carry the risk of releasing harmful gases. Hence, it's imperative for the public to stay well-informed and exercise caution, especially refraining from nearing an EV fire scene.