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Electric vehicles (EVs) are generally considered safer than internal combustion engines (ICEs) thanks to their lower fire risk and fewer moving parts. However, they still require care and maintenance to keep them secure when parked or on the road.
If you own an EV, check out our guide to safely charging batteries, maintenance, and security features below.
Modern EVs are designed to meet the same safety standards as ICE cars, with autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. They are also equipped with unique features. Due to their quiet operation, EVs can be difficult for pedestrians walking ahead or crossing the road to notice.
To address this, the government mandated that all EVs registered in the UK have an Audible Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) installed, which produces an external sound when travelling at speeds of 12mph or less. With AVAS, all pedestrians, including those with visual impairments, will be able to hear you coming.
While EVs come with built-in security features, adding tools can provide extra protection. Use a steering wheel lock when parking on the street outside your garage as a visible deterrent. If you use a keyless fob, consider investing in a radio frequency identification (RFID) blocking Faraday wallet or pouch to prevent criminals from stealing your data and unlocking your car.
Installing a front and rear dash cam can provide valuable evidence in the event of a road incident. The video they record can provide proof that you weren’t at fault after a crash. If your car is bumped when parked, your dash cam will instantly start recording its surroundings, even when you’re not inside.
You can charge your EV safely at home, even in the rain, thanks to the waterproof components and connectors of their chargers and cables. When charging, always use your dedicated home charge point. A standard 3-plug socket can take a long time to charge and cause fires when used with an extension cord.
You don’t need to worry about your home grid tripping when charging. Chargepoints feature dynamic load balancing, which adjusts the amount of power they draw based on your home’s usage. Before you plug it in, let your car cool down and charge it to 80% to preserve the battery’s longevity.
Your EV will typically require less frequent servicing than combustion engines, but it will benefit from a regular check-up once a year or every 12,000-18,000 miles. Different manufacturers recommend different schedules, with Tesla suggesting 12,500 miles.
As with any vehicle, you’ll need to keep the windscreen and wing mirrors clean of debris and dirt for optimum visibility. Check the tread depth of the tyres every two weeks with a 20p coin. If you can spot the outer band of the coin, it’s time to replace your tyres. At least once a month, check the tyre pressure and use an air pump to add air until it reaches the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
