Electric Cars Foster Safer Roads: An Explanation

In the ever-evolving world of automotive technology, electric vehicles (EVs) are emerging as a potential game-changer for road safety.

Taking a break during long journeys, whether to recharge or grab a bite, could help improve concentration for drivers, making them safer on the road. This is because extended stops can reduce the stress and fatigue associated with prolonged driving, allowing drivers to focus better.

Charging an electric car, especially on long journeys, might take half an hour to an hour at a service station, which is longer than filling up a tank of petrol. However, this extended stop can also be an opportunity for drivers to rest and recharge, further enhancing safety.

The mechanics of electric vehicles (EVs) themselves could lead to safer roads. For instance, advanced safety systems could be developed for EVs that anticipate loss of control situations, enhancing passenger vehicle safety. Torque vectoring, a principle that distributes traction or braking to different motors within a vehicle, is another feature that can improve a vehicle's cornering response and potentially make it safer.

Brands like Tesla, Porsche, Chevrolet, YANGWANG, and Mercedes-Benz are already leveraging torque vectoring in their electric vehicles, using multiple motors to manage torque vectoring effectively.

Moreover, electric cars, if all in the UK were electric, could reduce the country's emissions by 12%. This shift towards cleaner transportation could have a significant impact on reducing air pollution, contributing to a safer and healthier environment.

However, it's important to note that more than 90% of accidents are due to human error. While EVs and their advanced features can help mitigate risks, it's crucial for drivers to maintain safe driving habits. Driving more slowly, reducing stop-start driving, accelerating, and braking more gently can save a car's charge and make the driver safer.

The future of vehicle engineering and research is filled with challenges and opportunities. Road traffic injuries are predicted to become the fifth leading cause of death by 2030 unless action is taken. Autonomous vehicles, expected to be both electric and four to five times safer than standard vehicles for public acceptance, could play a significant role in addressing this issue.

In conclusion, electric vehicles, with their advanced mechanics and potential for safer driving habits, could contribute significantly to making our roads safer. However, it's essential to remember that human error remains the primary cause of accidents, and safe driving habits will continue to be crucial. The shift towards electric vehicles is not just about reducing emissions; it's about creating a safer, more sustainable future for all.