EMS 3.3 – When to Move EV from Isolation

Determining when it is safe to move a damaged EV from isolation is complex, as there is no definitive post-incident time frame for declaring an EV completely risk-free. Thermal runaway can occur up to 30 days, or potentially longer, following an incident. While a lower state of charge (i.e. below 25%) may reduce the likelihood of thermal runaway, it does not eliminate the risk entirely. The only absolute assurance comes when the high-voltage battery has been fully drained of power.

This lesson provides information to help you determine whether an EV is safe to move out of isolation.