Car in China, powered by electricity, struck by lightning multiple times, passengers unhurt
In the realm of modern technology, electric vehicles (EVs) have become a significant part of our daily lives. One of the lesser-known yet crucial safety features in these vehicles is the Faraday cage effect, named after the British scientist Michael Faraday who discovered the principle of conductive shielding.
How Faraday Cages Protect Electric Vehicles
The metal body of an electric vehicle acts as a conductor, allowing electric charges to move freely along its surface. When a lightning bolt strikes, the electrical current is directed along the exterior of the vehicle, thanks to this conductive shielding.
The charges from the lightning strike are then redistributed around the exterior surface of the vehicle, ensuring that the interior remains safe from electrical discharges. By directing the electric current along the exterior, the Faraday cage effect prevents the current from entering the passenger compartment, thus protecting the occupants and most of the vehicle's core components.
The Benefits of Faraday Cages in Electric Vehicles
The primary benefit of the Faraday cage effect is the protection of occupants from electrical shock during a lightning strike. While not all components may be fully protected, the effect reduces the risk of serious damage to the vehicle's electrical systems.
In a recent incident, a BYD Song Plus withstood three successive lightning strikes, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Faraday cage in electric vehicles. The vehicle's metal body functioned as an effective Faraday cage, safeguarding the driver and preserving the integrity of its critical systems.
Safety Measures During Thunderstorms
During a thunderstorm, it's advisable to close windows, sunroofs, and retract all antennas (if possible). ADAC recommends avoiding parking vehicles in elevated points and, if possible, seeking cover under a tree or building. For convertible vehicles, closing the top can create an effective Faraday cage.
In the event of a lightning strike, full electric vehicles offer no less safety than classic models. Electric vehicles, such as the BYD Song EV, are not more fire-prone than internal combustion engine vehicles.
The Role of a Faraday Cage in Lightning Strikes
During a lightning strike, the electric vehicle acts as a Faraday cage, conducting the electricity away over the outer surface. The current does not flow through the interior of the car during a lightning strike, ensuring the safety of the passengers, provided they have no direct contact with conductive parts connected to the outer shell.
Inspection reports of recently lightning-struck electric vehicles have revealed no signs of a short circuit in the core components - battery pack, electronic control, and motor. This further emphasizes the effectiveness of the Faraday cage in protecting these critical components.
In conclusion, the Faraday cage effect is a crucial safety feature in modern vehicles, including electric ones, ensuring that occupants remain safe during severe weather conditions like lightning storms. By understanding this principle, we can appreciate the technological advancements that make our electric vehicles safer and more reliable in adverse conditions.
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