Shift Magazine - November 25, 2019 - 19

ed with perm

One of
the biggest
challenges is
protecting people
from harm as
EV batteries
incorporate higher
voltages and even
more power.

ission. ww
w.nfpa.org

Eric Varton, chief engineer for
advanced development core
engineering at Yazaki North America

batteries; high-powered capacitors and
high-voltage electronics and cables.
Experts say the danger level is about
the same at an EV crash as at a crash
involving gasoline or diesel-powered
vehicles. But EV-specific checks are
being introduced to reduce hazards such
as electrocution, electrical burns and fires
that can break out even hours or days
after the crash. There may also be unique
challenges involving victim extraction,
the handoff to second responders and
vehicle removal and storage.
"One of the biggest challenges is protecting people from harm as EV batteries incorporate higher voltages and even
more power," observed Eric Varton, chief
engineer for advanced development core
engineering at Yazaki North America,
during his Shift conference presentation.

7 STEPS

Here are seven unique steps for EVs.
Step 1: Identifying the vehicle
The first step in avoiding problems after
an EV crash is identifying the brand and
model. This is generally done by reading
badging and referring to a detailed field

guide. Because EVs have unique safety
systems, brand- and even model-specific
technology and fast-evolving electronics
and battery tech, it's critical to recognize the vehicle type and implement any
unique shutdown procedures.
HIGH VOLTAGE COMPONENTS

Step 2: Immobilizing/isolating power
Is the vehicle really off? Electric vehicles are silent - until they start moving.
Responders locate the key fob, check the
dash display and determine if power is off.
They chock the wheels. Consulting the
field guide, they determine if and where
the automaker has incorporated an automatic or manual shutdown switch or if
there is a cut-loop (see story, Page 23) to
isolate battery power from cables, motors
and control electronics. Also, if the vehicle
has a 12-volt battery, experts recommend
disconnecting the negative cable.
Step 3: Carefully extracting the injured
Again, responders consult their field
guides to determine "no cut" areas in the
vehicle's body (where batteries, cabling
see CRASH, p. 22

HIGH VOLTAGE COMPONENTS

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

A/C Compressor
Cabin Heater
High Voltage Battery
High Voltage Battery Service Panel
Rear Drive Unit
High Voltage Cabling
Charge Port

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Emergency field guides from the National
Fire Protection Association, top, GM
and Tesla

november 2019 * shift

http://www.nfpa.org

Shift Magazine - November 25, 2019

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Shift Magazine - November 25, 2019