Stay in EVs During Thunderstorms for Safety

In a science popularization interview, Ding Yifu, Chief Expert at the New Energy Vehicle Technology Innovation Base of China Automotive Technology and Research Center Co., Ltd., stated that new energy vehicles parked in open outdoor areas may be struck by lightning during thunderstorms. He explained that when a vehicle is hit by lightning, its metal frame and body panels form an equipotential structure, allowing the lightning current to flow through the body into the ground, thereby keeping occupants inside safe from electric shock. However, if occupants immediately exit the vehicle after a lightning strike, they risk step-potential electric shock, as their feet might contact ground points with different electrical potentials. Therefore, the correct action is to remain inside the vehicle and only exit after confirming that the surrounding environment is safe.