NTSB Boss Thinks Electric Cars are Getting Too Big and Heavy
Are Heavy EVs a Safety Concern?
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is raising concerns about the increasing size and weight of modern electric vehicles (EVs) due to the necessity of large battery packs. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy pointed out the potential risks of serious injuries and fatalities associated with heavier EVs. For example, she mentioned that a Hummer EV weighs over 9,000lbs, while electrified versions of vehicles like the Ford F-150 and Volvo XC40 are significantly heavier than their gasoline-powered counterparts.
Balancing Environmental Goals and Safety
While recognizing the importance of the Biden administration’s environmental goals, Homendy also emphasized the need for automakers to be cautious about the unintended consequences of heavier EVs, such as an increase in road fatalities. The transportation sector plays a significant role in greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, but safety should not be compromised in the pursuit of environmental objectives.
Research on EV Weight and Safety Risks
Studies suggest that the additional weight of EVs could pose a safety hazard. A commentary in Nature highlighted the mortality costs associated with the extra weight of vehicles like the F-150 Lightning. Research indicated that for every 500kg (1,102lbs) of weight difference, the likelihood of passengers dying in a collision increases by 12 percent. Despite advancements in battery technology that could reduce the weight of EVs and improve safety, the presence of both combustion engine and electric vehicles on the roads may still present challenges in the near future.
