RISKS AND SAFETY ISSUES RELATED TO USE OF ELECTRIC AND HYBRID VEHICLES

Abstract

Nowadays hybrid vehicles take increasing share of new road vehicles, but also the electric vehicles have continuous development which is a sign of a serious beginning of new era of their use. The goals of introducing of these vehicles include lowering of the negative impact on the environment and also reducing of their operational costs. Together with the mentioned trends, there are some specifics related to the risks of using this type of vehicles. This paper gives the key elements related to the development of hybrid and electric vehicles with emphasis of the general distinctions in terms of conventional vehicles with internal combustion engines. The paper has focus on risk identification and hazards that can arise from hybrid and electric vehicles, which are specifically related to their technical differences from conventional vehicles with internal combustion engine. Those risks exist when the vehicles are in use, but also even when the vehicle is not in operation. There is also identification of potential risks for the emergency staff when there is accident with these types of vehicles. The paper also addresses the possible harmful events that can happen later or because of improper repairs of the vehicles. Having in mind that the literature sources are quite moderate and in Republic of Macedonia there is none, the conclusion represent an effort to systemize the available knowledge in order to help vehicle users and professionals to mitigate or lower the recognized risks.