Electric Quadricycles, also known as neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs), are a category of electric vehicles designed for lower-speed, short-distance travel. These vehicles typically have a top speed of 25-28 mph (40-45 km/h) and, are often used in controlled environments, and offer several safety benefits compared to traditional automobiles, which include:
Lower Speeds Reduce Accident Severity
The top speed of those vehicles is a crucial factor contributing to their safety. LSVs are designed to operate at speeds between 25-28 mph (40-45 km/h), which is considerably slower than the speeds at which traditional vehicles travel on highways and main roads. This limited speed capacity has a significant impact on accident severity.
When vehicles collide at lower speeds, the kinetic energy involved in the crash is reduced, leading to less severe impacts. The extent of vehicle damage, as well as the risk of injury or fatality to the occupants, is generally lower in low-speed collisions compared to high-speed accidents. According to the World Health Organization, a 5% decrease in average speed can result in a 30% reduction in fatal crashes. This demonstrates how the lower operating speeds of those vehicles can contribute to a safer driving environment.
Additionally, lower speeds give drivers more time to react to potential hazards, such as pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles. This improved reaction time can help prevent accidents altogether, further enhancing the safety benefits of those vehicles.
Aluminium Body
Aluminium has become an increasingly popular material for car manufacturing due to its numerous benefits, including improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. However, it also offers several safety advantages compared to conventional steel-based vehicles. Some of the critical safety benefits of aluminium cars include:
Weight Reduction and Improved Handling
One of the most significant advantages of aluminium is its lightweight nature. Aluminium cars weigh less than their steel counterparts, which can lead to better handling and manoeuvrability. This improved handling allows drivers to maintain better vehicle control, especially during emergency manoeuvres, reducing the risk of accidents.
Enhanced Crash Energy Absorption
Although aluminium is lighter than steel, it has excellent energy-absorbing properties. In the event of a collision, aluminium can absorb and dissipate the energy of the impact more effectively than steel. This results in a better deformation pattern, which can help protect vehicle occupants by reducing the forces experienced during a crash. As a result, aluminium cars can provide comparable or even superior crash protection compared to heavier steel vehicles.
Increased Vehicle Stability
Aluminium’s lightweight nature allows for a more balanced weight distribution throughout the vehicle. This improved weight distribution contributes to increased vehicle stability, which in turn can lead to better road-holding capabilities and reduced risk of rollover accidents.
Reduced Stopping Distances
The reduced weight of aluminium cars also means that less force is required to bring the vehicle to a stop. As a result, aluminium cars generally have shorter stopping distances than heavier steel vehicles. This can be particularly advantageous during emergency braking situations, as it reduces the likelihood of collisions.
Corrosion Resistance
Aluminium has a high resistance to corrosion, which can contribute to the long-term structural integrity of the vehicle. A car with a sturdy and corrosion-resistant structure is more likely to maintain its safety features and performance over time, ensuring that occupants remain protected even as the vehicle ages.