Electric Vehicle Safety Not Solely Focused on Batteries

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Discussions on electric vehicle safety often focus on batteries, particularly regarding fire risks or exposure to flooding. However, the safety aspects of electric vehicles are not solely determined by that component, but also by the overall design and technology used. With technological advancements, modern electric vehicles are designed with several new approaches that influence the level of safety and reliability on the road. According to Mahaendra Gofar, founder of EV Safe and lecturer at the National Battery Research Institute (NBRI), there are several technical factors that give electric vehicles their own safety characteristics, though they still need to be understood comprehensively by users. “EV safety is not just about the battery, but also how the vehicle design and systems work, from braking, stability, to component reliability,” Mahaendra told Kompas.com on Thursday (2/4/2026). One example is the regenerative braking system commonly used in electric vehicles. This technology allows the vehicle to slow down while recharging the battery, while also providing additional control, especially when traversing long descents. However, the braking characteristics also require adaptation from drivers who are not yet accustomed to it. In addition, the battery position under the floor lowers the vehicle’s centre of gravity. This condition can increase stability and reduce swaying during manoeuvres. Nevertheless, safety factors are still influenced by many other things, such as road conditions, tyres, and the driver’s own abilities. In terms of reliability, electric vehicles have fewer moving components than conventional engines, so the potential for mechanical damage tends to be lower. On the other hand, battery protection has also been designed to certain standards to withstand conditions like heavy rain or flooding. Nevertheless, Mahaendra emphasises that user understanding remains an important factor. By recognising the characteristics of electric vehicles and how to use them, potential risks can be prevented or reduced.