EV battery thefts, despair for the owner with appended worries!
The automobile thieves have had enough (they are still expected to be into ICE vehicle thefts too) with ICE vehicle and their component/accessory thefts since about 135 years plus. For ICE vehicles even the latest alarms, anti theft devices, immobilisers and every other such theft deterring component either have been or are on the way to be soon outsmarted by these thieves. The criminals' catchphrase is 'ahead of times and ahead of technology'. The chances of battery pack thefts will soon see an uprise, with these becoming the most lucrative and targeted component of EV's.
Since EV's are now multiplying, most of the new age thieves have found the batteries as a prized component on their 'favourite' list as a TOPPER. Here is an instance of e-rickshaw battery thefts where the police have arrested the thieves. Some 13 batteries worth Rs 84,000/- have been recovered. This is evidently the depreciated cost as on date. Coming to e-rickshaws, the thefts would be effortless as most of its components are less securely assembled.
These thieves have also started stealing EV two wheeler and four (incl four plus) wheeler batteries. Such thefts have taken place but are less known.
https://auto.hindustantimes.com/auto...480150541.html
In the above news item, about 700 EV scooter and cycle battery thefts have been reported between 2020-21 in Italy. Each battery pack costs € 1000. The thieves dismantled the cells and sold their wares to used/reconditioned battery makers.
This 2015 news reports about Toyota Prius battery thefts from the Bay area and also New York.
Quote:
It's a relatively quick way to make the buck, The Verge says. Removing them (and doing the job right) takes a pro about an hour, but criminals who cut the cables can get at the 120-pound battery in about 20 minutes. And there's good money to be made:
It's not entirely clear what kickstarted the spate of battery thefts, but Yahoo Autos speculates the demand for the tech might be rising because first-generation Prii, bought around a decade ago, are nearing the end of their battery warranties. Replacements from official sources can cost up to $3,000, while second-hand batteries are a literal steal, reportedly going for under $1,000 on Craigslist.
The link:-
https://www.popularmechanics.com/car...battery-theft/
The Daily Express also reported in 2021 that EV charger cable and battery thefts could make such car owners very vulnerable. The metal prices are rising and the global demand has soared sparking interest of the criminals.
https://www.express.co.uk/life-style...bles-batteries
This will be a growing menace soon for EV owners. Detection will be too difficult if cells are dismantled and fitted into reconditioned or used batteries.
Imagine doing long distance with an EV, halting in a remote location, getting the car recharged while spending a peaceful night at a hotel/motel. And the owner wakes up to see his EV charger and battery stolen. Hopefully, it's not going to be a cakewalk for the thieves and we could have burglar alarms and safety devices in EV's to detect and deter intruders. And whether the thieves outsmart these alarms or devices or get outsmarted, only time will tell.
For the criminals specialising in ICE vehicle thefts it required some sort of "Humpty Dumpty"expertise in automobile engineering. Now to gain expertise in the EV battery and charger cable thefts, the criminals will require some sort of "Spin Doctor" specialisation in electrical engineering.
Last edited by anjan_c2007 : 20th April 2023 at 16:59.
