They Submerged an Electric Vehicle’s Engine in Water. What Happened? [VIDEO]

What happens to an electric vehicle’s engine if it is submerged in water at a depth of 2 meters? This unusual test was conducted during a special demonstration at the vehicle manufacturer’s research and development center.

Electric Motor in Water – Experiment

The action shown in the video is a water resistance test conducted by Yutong’s research and development center – a manufacturer of electric buses. A working electric motor was submerged in a water-filled aquarium. As seen, despite this, the motor continued to operate, and the water did not breach its insulation or cause a short circuit.

According to the company’s engineers who designed the insulation, it is capable of withstanding submersion at a depth of up to 2 meters for 72 hours.

What is the purpose of conducting the test? Vehicle manufacturers aim to increase the safety of electric drives. Protecting systems from extreme conditions, such as high temperature and water, is particularly important. Even city vehicles can be exposed to flooding, for instance, after heavy rainfall. High resistance of the electric motor and its equipment to water contact is key to trouble-free operation in difficult conditions.