VIDEO: What happens when your (electric) car is struck by lightning?
What are the odds?
The chance of being struck by lightning as a person is about 1 in 3 million. A small chance, but it happens dozens of times a year worldwide. In a car you are safe, as you have probably heard. This is because the metal body of a car acts as a so-called “Faraday cage,” conducting electricity through the outside of the vehicle to the ground. This usually keeps the occupants safe, but it does not mean that damage cannot occur.
What happens when lightning strikes?
When lightning strikes a car, electricity spreads through the bodywork and finds the quickest way to the ground. This can have several consequences. The car’s electrical systems, such as the on-board computer, lights and sensors, can be damaged or fail completely. The heat from the impact can cause the air in the tires to suddenly expand, which can cause a blowout. Paint and bodywork can also be damaged by the tremendous energy released, resulting in melted paint or even cracked metal panels. In some cases, a spark can cause a fire, especially if fuel lines or insulation material are hit.
What if you drive an electric car?
Electric cars are just as (un)susceptible to lightning strikes as fuel cars. The construction still provides protection for occupants, but the strike can cause damage to the batteries or charging components. Don’t worry, the batteries won’t explode immediately. And no, you won’t get a free charge, either. But the battery pack may well be in good shape. As with a gasoline car, damage to electronic systems or wiring is not always immediately visible, but can cause long-term problems. So get it checked out. But as said, the chances of it happening to you are extremely small.
The video below shows the dashcam footage of the American TikTokker that was nearly struck by lightning: