Autos eléctricos vs los de gasolina en las inundaciones : ¿which is safer?

In short:

The recent flooding in south Florida raises questions about the safety of electric cars compared to gasoline ones:

• Gasoline cars: vulnerable to water entering the engine, electrical failures, and corrosion.
• Electric cars: advantages in sealing components, but risks if the seals deteriorate.
• Recent cases: minor damage in electric cars; no catastrophic battery failures.
• Studies: both types of vehicles are vulnerable in extreme conditions.

The safety depends on the model and precautions taken.

In the recent flooding event that affected south Florida, dozens of cars were stranded in the waters, including numerous electric vehicles. This raises an important question: how safe are electric cars compared to gasoline when faced with flooding conditions? We will analyze the risks and benefits associated with each type of vehicle in these extreme circumstances.

Risks and potential damage of gasoline cars in floods

Gasoline car engines are designed to intake air and fuel, making them particularly vulnerable to water entering the engine. When water gets into the engine, it can cause significant damage that results in costly repairs. Some of the major issues include:

• Engine damage : Water in the intake system can lead to hydrolock, a condition where water causes the engine parts to warp and break.
• Electrical components : Electrical systems are also prone to failure, including short circuits and damage to critical components.
• Corrosion : Prolonged exposure to water can lead to corrosion on metal components, accelerating vehicle wear.

Repairing these vehicles can be complex and costly. Jonathan Sánchez, chief supervisor of EV Garage Miami, mentions that repairing a gasoline car damaged by flooding can cost at least $10,000. Additionally, most parts may require extensive and laborious replacements, further increasing the cost and time of repairs.

Benefits and challenges of electric cars in flooding conditions

In comparison, electric cars present a series of advantages when it comes to floods. One key benefit is the protection of batteries and electronic components through sealed joints, which initially prevents water entry.

However, these seals can degrade over time, which poses additional risks. According to Sánchez, “depending on the model and year of the car, those seals may have deteriorated, leading to potential leaks in the battery.” While water damage in electric cars can vary, in many cases, it can be resolved more quickly. Sánchez emphasizes that at EV Garage Miami, some electric cars with moderate damage can be repaired in an hour, with costs around $500.

However, if water penetrates too much into the battery, it could result in a catastrophic failure, with repairs potentially costing up to $18,000. In severe events, such failures can include fires, especially in the presence of saltwater, as observed after Hurricane Ian in 2022 and Hurricane Idalia in 2023.

Analysis of recent cases and expert opinions

In the recent flooding in south Florida in June 2024, various situations were observed with electric and gasoline cars. It is interesting to note that while several electric cars arrived at EV Garage Miami after the incident, none presented a catastrophic battery failure. Instead, minor damages such as detached under panels and soaked carpets were evident.

Companies like Tesla claim that their vehicles have a greater capacity for resistance. The Tesla Cybertruck, for instance, can elevate up to 2.5 feet off the ground, which, according to Elon Musk, should allow it to briefly cross relatively calm rivers and seas. However, reality may be different. Local10 News captured images of a Tesla Cybertruck being towed from a flooded area in the same event.

Brent Gruber, an analyst at JD Power, has attempted to correct the belief that electric cars can handle deep waters without issues. Over five years of research, Gruber observed that driving an electric car in deep and stagnant waters can cause significant damage.

The impact of extreme events is well illustrated with data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). After Hurricane Ian, between 3,000 and 5,000 electric cars were damaged, with approximately 600 declared a total loss and 36 that caught fire. These fires mainly resulted from exposure to corrosive saltwater.

Final considerations on the safety of electric and gasoline vehicles in floods

After analyzing the risks associated with both types of vehicles in flooding conditions, it is clear that each has its strengths and weaknesses. Electric cars offer certain advantages due to their protective seals, although these can degrade over time. Repairs for electric cars may be less costly and faster compared to gasoline cars, as long as the damage is not severe. Conversely, gasoline cars are particularly vulnerable to water entering the engine, which can lead to costly and prolonged repairs.

Moreover, studies and recent cases suggest that no vehicle is completely safe in extreme flooding conditions. Resilience can vary not only between electric and gasoline cars but also among different models and brands. As an expert in automotive design and mechanics, my recommendation is to avoid driving through deep water with any type of vehicle. Safety and prevention should always be the top priority.

Ultimately, decisions regarding the type of vehicle and precautionary measures should be based on a careful assessment of risks and the specific properties of each vehicle. Technology continues to advance, but it is always vital to stay well-informed and prepared to face flooding conditions.

Annex: estimated repair cost comparison

I hope this comparison has provided a clear insight into the challenges and benefits associated with both types of vehicles in flooding situations. Make informed decisions with knowledge and caution.