Reasons behind higher EV crash rates compared to fuel-powered cars

WEB DESK: The American car rental company, Hertz, is undergoing a substantial change in its vehicle fleet by declaring the sale of 20,000 electric cars and choosing petrol alternatives.

CEO Stephen Scherr highlighted that high repair costs for electric vehicles (EVs) and increased crash incidents were key factors in this decision.

The move raises broader concerns for the EV industry, with researchers from LexisNexis Risk Solutions discovering a trend of higher crash rates among EV drivers.

According to Scherr, the repair costs for EVs are notably higher, contributing to the decision to switch back to gasoline vehicles.

This aligns with findings from LexisNexis, which analysed insurance data, revealing that when drivers transition from gasoline to electric cars, the frequency of crashes rises by about 14.3 per cent and the severity of claims increases by 14.5 per cent.

The study by LexisNexis indicates that the spike in incidents is most prominent within the first year of owning an EV, gradually decreasing as drivers become accustomed to the new technology.

Interestingly, the research also reveals that households with both gas and electric models experience more frequent crashes, emphasising the challenges of regularly switching between the two.

Notably, the focus on electric vehicles in this context largely involves Teslas, which constituted 80 per cent of Hertz’s EV fleet. However, LexisNexis researchers observed similar trends in China, suggesting broader issues beyond a specific brand.

The data highlights that unfamiliarity with EVs, particularly in the early stages of ownership, may contribute to the higher crash rates.

While the Highway Loss Data Institute has not found overall higher crash rates for Tesla vehicles, Teslas do exhibit higher claim costs.

The unique characteristics of electric vehicles, such as their instant start and rapid acceleration, contribute to increased risks.

Tesla’s ability to accelerate quickly, paired with the absence of traditional engine sounds, may lead drivers to be less aware of their speed, especially in low-speed environments like parking garages.

Moreover, EVs’ heavier weight due to large battery packs contributes to more significant damage in collisions, leading to higher insurance claims.

The one-pedal driving feature, slowing the vehicle when the driver lifts off the accelerator, adds complexity, potentially causing confusion in emergency situations.

In conclusion, Hertz’s shift away from EVs reflects broader challenges in the industry, with higher crash rates and repair costs associated with electric vehicles.

Understanding the unique characteristics of EVs, addressing driver unfamiliarity, and enhancing safety features are crucial aspects of the sustainable growth of electric mobility.

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