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As the world begins to turn its attention more and more to electric vehicles, it is inevitable that sooner or later they will end up on the scrap pile like their dinosaur internal combustion cousins.
But, how does it work? Not only from the physical act of cars being scrapped, but for you, as an owner, what do you need to know about getting your electric car ready to head to the scrapyard?
What are the differences between ICE and EV?
One of the key points about scrapping an electric vehicle (EV) over an internal combustion engine (ICE) boils down to safety. Simply put, it is much more dangerous to scrap an electric car than it is to scrap a conventional vehicle, so the location scrapping must be prepared for the fact an EV will be coming into their yard.
Of course one of the major differences between a traditional ICE and an EV is that, unlike the older machines, you cannot break the engine down into reusable parts to quite the same extent with modern EVs. That’s not to say nothing is salvageable, however, and there will still be some components that will be able to be extracted from your car before it is scrapped. But, as we’ll come onto later, with the extra risks involved with working on EVs, it is more important than ever to leave it to a trained professional to avoid damage, injury or even worse.
EVs, much like all other cars, can only be scrapped at an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), but even those locations must have staff that are put through additional training before they are able to scrap EVs.
Challenges with scrapping evs?
One of the biggest challenges when it comes to scrapping an electric vehicle is the lithium-ion battery, which in itself can be an incredibly dangerous task. All modern EVs use a lithium-ion, although you may find some hybrids (particularly Toyotas) using a nickel metal hybride battery. Recycling batteries of this type is not a simple task, and requires specific training for staff at ATFs, as the materials within the lithium-ion batteries can be harmful to both the environment and to those handling them. A mishandled or poorly stored battery could also lead to fire or even explosions.
Another challenge facing breakers, and this one may seem a little obvious at first, is the risk of electrocution. Electric cars can have up to 800 volts flowing through them, even after the battery has been disconnected, which again just amplifies the need to ensure you go to a qualified ATF with the relevant certification to work on electric cars.
Finally, within the electric motors themselves sits a number of large magnets which are powerful enough to literally rip tools out of mechanics pockets. Not only can this pose a risk for the mechanics working on them already, the magnets also have the ability to cause problems with medical fittings such as a pacemaker.
Get the best price today
If you’re looking to scrap your electric vehicle, then you’re already at the right place with National Scrap Car. With our nationwide network of trusted and, more importantly, certified buyers, we can guarantee you the very best price for your car with no hassle whatsoever. Due to our buyers being in all four corners of the country, we’ll even arrange for your motor to be picked up, at no additional cost to you. So get started today by getting in touch with one of our friendly team of experts, or alternatively use our quick and easy online quote generator to see just how much your car could be worth in just 30 seconds.