Electric vehicles (EVs) have earned a reputation as some of the fastest vehicles on the road and track, especially with models like the Tesla Model S Plaid accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in an astounding 1.9 seconds. Their instant torque and ability to launch off the line give them a clear advantage in drag races, and EVs lighting up drag strips has become a common sight. But despite their popularity, some tracks are now starting to ban EVs, citing fire and shock hazards that make it difficult to manage these vehicles safely in high-speed environments.

Willowbank Raceway Bans EVs Over Safety Concerns

Willowbank Raceway in Queensland, Australia, recently announced that it will no longer allow fully electric vehicles to race or test at its facility. This move, as reported by Drive.com.au, was made after a thorough review of safety regulations and emergency response procedures for EVs. The decision reflects growing safety concerns about EVs in the high-stakes, high-speed setting of motorsports.

“After careful consideration and investigation, Willowbank Raceway has decided that we can no longer allow road-registered Fully Electric Vehicles to race or test at Willowbank Raceway,” reads the press release from the track. “We have been reviewing the regulations from Motorsport Australia, NEDRA, as well as the emergency response procedures for specific vehicles and after information provided by these departments, we have determined that the risks associated with racing and testing Electric Vehicles are too high.”

The raceway’s ban, which takes immediate effect, applies only to fully electric vehicles, not hybrids. Willowbank’s concerns are rooted in the specific risks that EVs pose, such as:

Battery-Related Fire Hazards: Damaged EV batteries can release flammable gases and pose a significant fire risk. Unlike gasoline fires, which are generally managed with standard fire suppression methods, EV battery fires often require large quantities of water or specialized equipment that many tracks lack.
Shock Hazards: EVs run on high-voltage systems, and the track worries that emergency responders may not be able to confirm that the vehicle is safely powered off after an accident, putting them at risk of shock.
Inaccessible Doors: Some EVs, notably Tesla models, have retractable door handles that can be challenging to open from the outside. This can pose significant problems in emergencies when rescuers need to access the vehicle.
“Live” Vehicles: Willowbank also highlighted concerns about the inability to confirm if an EV is completely deactivated after a wreck, meaning it could potentially still pose a risk to both the driver and emergency personnel.

Although Willowbank has not experienced any significant EV-related incidents, the track is prioritizing safety, even if that means temporarily barring EVs from racing. “While you might be able to nitpick the track’s case for banning EVs, you can’t knock ’em for wanting people to stay alive,” says Willowbank in its statement, emphasizing that the decision was made with the well-being of both participants and staff in mind.

Other Tracks Banning EVs

Willowbank isn’t alone in this approach. Over the past few years, other tracks have implemented similar bans on electric vehicles. Summit Point Raceway in West Virginia and Anglesey Circuit in Wales are two other notable tracks that have restricted EV access, sparking a wider conversation about the future of EVs in motorsports.

These tracks are typically smaller, grassroots facilities without large staff or the extensive resources to handle the unique challenges of EV safety. While larger, better-equipped tracks may continue to welcome EVs, many smaller venues may increasingly follow Willowbank’s lead. Banning EVs altogether could become a trend among venues that cater to amateur and community racing due to both financial and logistical limitations.

The Future of EVs on the Track

As EVs become more popular and continue to push the boundaries of automotive performance, the motorsports world will likely need to adapt. Some larger racing organizations and professional drag racing leagues are already working on EV safety protocols and are investing in equipment to handle potential EV incidents. However, for smaller tracks, addressing these issues may require significant investments that aren’t always feasible. Until there are standardized protocols and affordable solutions, it’s likely that more tracks will err on the side of caution and limit or ban EV participation.

EV drivers in Queensland, Australia, and elsewhere will still find tracks willing to accommodate them. In the Queensland area, nearby venues like Lakeside Park and Carnell Raceway remain open to EV racers, but the decision at Willowbank may be indicative of a trend to come.

For now, as the EV market continues to grow and regulations evolve, it remains to be seen how racing culture will adapt to the unique demands of these powerful, quick, and complex vehicles.

Sources: The Drive, Drive.com.au