Bangkok: The phenomenon of electric vehicle fires has been a topic of discussion on social media, with users sharing potential causes such as accidents and manufacturing defects.

According to Thai News Agency, the "Sure Before Sharing" center has verified the legitimacy of these claims in an interview with Mr. Suramis Charoenngam, an automotive technology tester and expert. The findings highlight six main reasons why electric vehicles may catch fire.

One significant cause identified is the impact from accidents. Inside electric vehicle batteries, a separator keeps the positive and negative terminals apart. If an accident damages this separator, the terminals may come into contact, resulting in a short circuit and potential fire.

Another risk factor is the phenomenon known as "Thermal Runaway," where defects in battery design or manufacturing lead to overheating. This risk is heightened if a vehicle is parked with a high charge, stressing the battery and increasing fire potential.

The study also points to issues with substandard charging systems. If a fire originates from faulty charging equipment, a vehicle with adequate safety systems can cut off power to prevent short circuits, though the charging equipment itself may ignite.

Overcharging is another concern, particularly for vehicles lacking proper protection systems. Constantly charging to full capacity can be risky unless the vehicle meets high standards and has robust battery management systems.

Manufacturing defects have also been identified as a cause of concern, with incidents traced back to specific production batches. This highlights the importance of consumer awareness regarding potential defects.

Lastly, modifications or the addition of electrical devices by unqualified technicians can disrupt the vehicle's control systems, leading to short circuits and fires.

Despite these risks, experts assure that electric vehicles are not inherently dangerous. By choosing vehicles that meet safety standards, using properly installed charging systems, and avoiding unauthorized modifications, the likelihood of a fire remains low. Sharing this information is encouraged to promote awareness and safe practices among electric vehicle users.