According to a study, electric cars are more prone to rear impacts than thermal models. Problem: the cost of repairs is also higher.
Electric cars hit more from behind
Electric cars are booming. However, their technical specificity could explain an intriguing phenomenon: they are more often victims of rear-end collisions. A recent study conducted for Mitchell, a company specializing in insurance technologies, reveals that 35.9% of collisions involving electric cars are rear impacts, compared to 27.5% for thermal vehicles.
The main explanation put forward by experts lies in the braking dynamics specific to electric vehicles. Unlike thermal cars, electric cars often adopt a driving mode called “ single pedal ». This mode allows rapid deceleration as soon as the driver releases the acceleratora phenomenon due to the kinetic energy recovery system. The habits of motorists accustomed to thermals, where deceleration is more gradual, contribute to these accidents, because delayed reactions increase the risk of impact.
Financial impacts: more expensive repairs for electrics
Another crucial point concerns the cost of electric vehicle repairs. According to the study, average compensation claims for electrics reach $5,560, compared to $4,741 for thermals, a significant difference.
The reasons? Specific technologies integrated into electrics, such as batteries and sensors, make their repair more complex and expensive, particularly in frontal collisions. Despite everything, even in the event of a rear impact, costs can quickly add up, especially if electronic components are damaged.
Faced with this observation, innovations could play a key role. For example, the installation of early warning systems for drivers behind or the integration of intelligent brake lights adapted to the rapid deceleration of electric vehicles could reduce the risk of collision.
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