Hat yai: Asst. Prof. Dr. Chana Yeangkamolsingh, a committee member of the Thai Electric Vehicle Association, has issued a warning regarding the potential fire risks posed by electric vehicles (EVs) that have been submerged in water for extended periods due to severe flooding in the Hat Yai area. More than 10,000 cars and motorcycles suffered damage, with approximately 10% being EVs.

According to Thai News Agency, despite most EV batteries having an IP67 waterproof standard, which protects against immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes, the extreme flooding in Hat Yai saw water levels reaching the roofs of many cars. This prolonged submersion raises the likelihood of water entering the batteries, leading to damage and an increased risk of short circuits and fires. Vehicle owners are advised to relocate their cars to a spot at least 15 meters away from buildings and not to drive or charge them.

The situation is similar for electric scooters, with submerged batteries potentially beyond repair and treated as waste. Owners are urged to remove and store the batteries away from other belongings to avoid electrical short circuits or fires. The Thai Electric Vehicle Association, in partnership with Hat Yai Technical College and Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai Campus, has set up a technician collection and dispatch center to inspect damaged vehicles and manage the disposal of flooded scooter batteries.

“Cars aren’t a big concern, but homeowners might have left flooded electric scooters as trash, which could potentially become unusable. Therefore, we’re trying to separate them for safety reasons,” stated Asst. Prof. Dr. Chana.