With a snow tow from Biltema, 32-year-old Joni repaired his 10-year-old Tesla Model S. He had otherwise been told that it would cost DKK 112,000.
A Tesla Model S was repaired with a ski tore from Biltema that cost DKK 249, which saved the owner Joni around DKK 112,000.
It may sound like a success story. But there is cause for concern about the health and safety risks of electric car batteries – especially when car owners try to repair them themselves.
Joni, who is 32 years old, had just driven his 10-year-old Tesla Model S P85D approximately 35,000 kilometers when the battery suddenly failed. He contacted Tesla, who stated that a repair would cost DKK 112,000.
– I had no interest in paying so much money, says Joni to the newspaper Ilta Sanomat .
Instead, he chose to investigate the problem himself. He discovered that the battery had been damaged by water that had formed condensation. With the help of a ski drier from Biltema, he drained the battery for two weeks, after which the car worked again. Total repair costs? 249 kroner.
Although Joni's solution is cheap and apparently effective, it is important to understand the dangers that such 'repairs' can be associated with.
The batteries work under high voltage, which can be life-threatening if you don't know what you're doing. In addition, batteries that have been exposed to water or other damage may catch fire.
When electric cars burn, toxic fumes are released from the battery's chemical composition. This can pose serious health hazards to those staying close to the accident site and to rescue personnel working to extinguish the fire.
An incorrect repair can increase the risk of such an incident. Joni also warns others against attempting similar repairs without the necessary knowledge.
– The battery in an electric car has a high voltage that can be fatal, he tells Ilta Sanomat.
The case emphasizes the importance of considering both the safety and environmental consequences of electric cars, especially in connection with unauthorized repairs and possible accidents.
