Internal combustion or electric: Which car survives floods best?

Long-term consequences and corrosion

Regardless of the vehicle type, there is a risk of long-term damage from corrosion in both cases. Water that penetrates vehicle parts can cause rust and shorten the life of the vehicle. However, electric vehicles have the advantage that their battery housings are often made of corrosion-resistant materials.

Safety and malfunctions

Modern electric cars have safety mechanisms that interrupt the flow of electricity when water is detected to prevent short circuits. This provides additional protection when driving through shallow water. In combustion vehicles, spark plugs, distributors and other electrical components can cause immediate malfunctions if water enters.

Caution is better than hindsight

Despite the technical superiority of electric cars in sealing against water, driving through water should be avoided whenever possible. Shallow water can also pose considerable risks, such as reduced visibility and the possibility of deeper water suddenly opening up in front of you.

Conclusion

In shallow water of 10 to 20 centimetres deep, modern electric cars are actually better equipped than combustion vehicles. Their robust sealing systems and lower susceptibility to immediate damage make them a safer choice in these conditions. Nevertheless, the best advice remains to avoid flooded areas whenever possible to prevent unnecessary risks and potential damage to the vehicle.

This article shows that technical advances in electric cars are not only environmentally friendly, but also relevant to safety. Nevertheless, every driver - regardless of vehicle type - should always exercise caution and not underestimate the dangers of flooding.