Tips for using electric vehicles safely and correctly.

According to the Fire Prevention, Fighting, and Rescue Police Department, the use of internal combustion engine vehicles (using gasoline and diesel fuel) significantly impacts the environment, and the trend of "greening" transportation is essential to reduce the burden on the environment and public health. Electric vehicle technology is becoming a trend, and electric vehicles are currently very popular in developed countries such as Germany, Norway, the UK, France, the Netherlands, China, and India.

In Vietnam, major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang are seeing a significant increase in the number of electric bicycles and electric motorbikes. However, alongside the conveniences offered by electric vehicles, the risk of fire and explosion from their electrical systems is raising serious concerns in the community.

Many fires have caused serious consequences.

Reports indicate that numerous electric vehicle fires have occurred not only in Vietnam but also worldwide, causing significant loss of life and property.

According to the investigation results, the majority of the causes stem from the battery or accumulator charging process. Common faults include:

Using low-quality batteries: Many vehicles use batteries of unknown origin, that have been repaired, or whose specifications have been altered from the manufacturer. Even installing power-hungry peripheral devices (lights, horns, alarms, etc.) beyond their design capacity increases the risk of fire and explosion.

Unsafe power converters: The connections and components inside the power converter are not well insulated, easily leading to short circuits and electrical discharges.

Incorrect charging methods: Overcharging, charging when the battery is still hot after use, or charging in high-temperature environments, near heat sources, or flammable materials can all lead to malfunctions. Even charging while the ignition is on can cause the charger to malfunction, failing to switch to maintenance charging mode, leading to overload and potential fire or explosion.

External factors: Charging in damp, poorly ventilated areas, damaged wires, rodent damage causing insulation loss… are also potential causes of electric vehicle fires.

Warnings and recommendations from the Fire Prevention and Rescue Police Department.

In light of the above situation, the Fire Prevention and Rescue Police Department has issued a series of recommendations to help people raise awareness and prevent fire hazards while using electric vehicles:

1. Only use quality, certified electric vehicles and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Do not buy equipment of unknown origin.

2. Charge correctly and safely. Use a stable power source and charge when the battery is nearly empty. Wait about 20 minutes after the vehicle has been running before starting to charge. Do not charge for more than 8 hours continuously. Avoid charging overnight or when no adult is home. Charge in a dry, well-ventilated place, away from flammable materials, heat sources, and heat-generating devices. Do not modify the vehicle's design without authorization.

3. Do not replace components or add incompatible power-consuming devices. Only use genuine, compatible batteries, power packs, and chargers.

4. Electric vehicles must be charged at licensed, certified charging stations with appropriate fire safety measures. Charging stations must be fully equipped with fire extinguishing equipment and have emergency response plans. Regular inspection and maintenance of electrical systems and fire safety equipment in the charging area are also required.

Electric vehicles are an irreversible trend in the green transportation development strategy. However, along with their convenience and environmental friendliness, people need to raise awareness about fire safety, strictly adhere to manufacturer and regulatory guidelines to ensure safety for themselves, their families, and the community.