Warning issued for millions of drivers in 'heavy' EVs on motorway
The Vehicle Restraint Manufacturers Association (VRMA) claims that outdated safety barriers are not designed to withstand impacts from heavier electric vehicles.
A warning has been issued to anyone in a "heavy" electric vehicle who drives on a motorway. The Vehicle Restraint Manufacturers Association (VRMA) claims that outdated safety barriers are not designed to withstand impacts from heavier electric vehicles.
While traditional petrol and diesel cars weigh around 1.5 tonnes, electric vehicles weigh between 1.8 and 2.2 tonnes. But the metal barriers lining Britain's roads are still designed to cope only with standards set back in 1998 and are tested with 1.5-tonne vehicles.
In a letter sent to National Highways and seen by the Telegraph reads: "The failure to address this issue could lead to preventable fatalities, more severe accidents and legal liabilities for governing authorities."
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Colin Abbott, the joint chairman of the VRMA and director of SSR Limited, said: "My concern is that the lives and safety of motorists driving electric vehicles are being put at risk."
"While switching to electric cars is essential to cutting emissions, it brings a critical and overlooked issue: can our barriers actually keep these heavier vehicles from breaking through?" it added.
A Department for Transport spokesman said: "Standards on high-speed roadside barriers are continually under review and National Highways is currently exploring any updates needed.
"Meanwhile, there is a comprehensive programme of upgrades in place and National Highways has installed or renewed over 900 miles of safety barriers between 2020 and 2024, prioritising the busiest motorways to ensure maximum benefit."
Responding, one web user fumed: "These cars are nothing but a scam. I'm so pleased I can fill up my tank with petrol and in a few minutes I'll be on my way. No waiting around for a car to charge up. How so many people have fallen for the concept of these cars is beyond me!"
"They are also responsible for all the constant potholes everywhere! Heavy pieces of junk!!!" a second typed.
Another raged: "A head on collision with motorway crash barriers is highly unlikely .More so with heavy electric vehicles that are unlikely to be shunted 90 degrees from their direction of travel and then hit barriers head on."