The steps to follow when responding to an incident involving an electric or hybrid vehicle
Visual recognition of the electric vehicle
The identification of the electric vehicle, which is very important before the response, can be made thanks to the following reference points:
- Specific logos on the bodywork. For example, the ZE logo is affixed to Renault models,
- The electric charge flap is different to the traditional fuel tank flap, and is often situated at the front of the vehicle on the grille or the wing,
- The battery warning light on the instrument panel inside the car.
Identification of principal electric components
If the vehicle has turned over, you can locate:
- The location of the battery, which is hard to miss because of its size,
- The supply cables connecting the battery to the engine. On Renault vehicles, these high-voltage (400-Volt) cables are visible through their thickness and their orange sheathing.
Extrication of passengers
- As on a traditional vehicle, make sure that the SRS airbag deployment system is neutralised (if not already deployed). And avoid cutting into reinforced bodywork zones,
- Do not cut into the protected zone through which the cables supplying the electric engine pass,
- To cut cables, use gloves in order to protect oneself from potential electric shocks.
