Willowbank Raceway in Queensland, Australia has announced a significant shift in its policies concerning electric vehicles (EVs) on the track.
Effective immediately, the renowned Australian drag racing venue will no longer permit road-registered fully electric vehicles to race or test on its grounds.
This decision comes after an in-depth evaluation of safety protocols, referencing insights from Motorsport Australia, the National Electric Drag Racing Association (NEDRA) and emergency response agencies.
The raceway’s statement highlights multiple safety challenges tied to fully electric vehicles in racing contexts.
Among the key risks, Willowbank Raceway notes the potential release of toxic and flammable gases if an EV battery is damaged in a collision.
Additionally, emergency responders might face difficulty confirming whether an electric vehicle is fully deactivated following an incident.
Another crucial issue is the external door locking system, which could remain locked after a collision, limiting first responder access in emergencies.
Further, if a driver were rendered unconscious due to an impact, the structural rigidity and closed chassis design could complicate rescue efforts.
Beyond collision risks, Willowbank Raceway points out the operational challenges in handling EVs post-incident.
For instance, fully electric vehicles typically demand specific fire suppression methods, such as water baths, due to the unique nature of lithium-ion battery fires. The raceway's current equipment is not fully suited to manage these requirements effectively.
The policy applies strictly to fully electric vehicles, while hybrid vehicles remain eligible for racing events at Willowbank Raceway.