Tesla fire video shows EV threat in storms

US authorities call out EV makers over “threats of their cars” following footage of a Tesla bursting into flames after a flood.

American politicians have hit out at EV brands such as Tesla for failing to make customers aware of the risks posed by electric cars following storms.

Viral video of a Tesla Model X electric car bursting into flames following Hurricane Helena in Florida shows the risk posed by EV batteries that have been submerged, particularly in salt water.

Home footage of a Tesla Model X that caught fire following a storm in the US. Photo: Supplied

Homeowner Lisa Hodges told Reuters that “I’m just glad we’re alive, but everything, we’ve been married 38 years and everything we put into that house … it’s all gone.”

Florida’s Pinellas County posted on X that “Electric Vehicles that have been flooded in saltwater can catch fire. If you evacuated and left an electric vehicle or golf cart in your garage or under a building and you are not able to get to it or move it, we want you to let us know.”

Home footage of a Tesla Model X that caught fire following a storm in the US. Photo: Supplied

Florida politician Jimmy Patronis said “I don’t think EV manufacturers have been proactive in notifying consumers about the threats of their cars and storm surge,” he said.

“As grids become reenergized EV owners impacted by storm surge must work with urgency to get it pulled away from homes.”

Patronis previously tweeted about the risks posed by EVs following storm surges in 2022, when Teslas affected by floodwater would burst into flames several days after floodwater subsided.

Tesla’s official advice for owners is that they should prevent disaster by moving vehicles to higher ground and away from structures ahead of a storm if it is safe to do so.

The brand says “If you notice fire, smoke, audible popping/hissing or heating coming from your vehicle, step away and immediately contact your local first responders”.

Tesla says owners with cars affected by floodwater should follow three steps:

– Treat your vehicle as if it has been in an accident and contact your insurance company.

– Do not attempt to operate the vehicle until an authorised shop has inspected it. If you are a Tesla vehicle owner, you can schedule your inspection with Tesla Service.

– Safely tow or move the vehicle at least 50ft (15m) from structures or other combustible materials such as other cars and personal property.