Thermal Runaway
Thermal runaway is a dangerous chain reaction in a lithium-ion cell where rising temperature causes further heating.
What is Thermal Runaway?
It can lead to fire. Causes include damage, defects or overcharging. Battery packs have protection systems. Battery fires are rare but hard to extinguish and may reignite. Manufacturers provide rescue sheets that show where high-voltage parts are located.
How it works
Heat triggers reactions that release more heat.
Why it matters for your car
After a severe crash, battery checks are needed. Emergency services follow special procedures.
Other terms
- Airing Down (Lowering Tyre Pressure Off-Road)
- All-wheel Drive (AWD)
- Charging Modes (Mode 2, 3, 4)
- Clutch
- Cylinder Deactivation (Cylinder On Demand)
- Dry Sump Lubrication
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- European Accident Statement
- Hall-effect Sensor
- Lane Change Assist
- Locking Wheel Nuts (Wheel Locks)
- Neutral Safety Switch (Inhibitor Switch)
- Post-crash Safety Inspection
- Self-Sealing Tyre
- Thermistor (Temperature Sensor)
- Third-Party Liability Insurance
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Vehicle Deregistration
- VVT Solenoid (Camshaft Control Valve)
- Wheel Runout