E-Rickshaw Maintenance In Monsoons: Tips For Novice Drivers 

Monsoons have arrived, and so has the struggle to protect your vehicles from defaults and damages due to floods, waterlogging, rains, electrical inefficiency, and much more. When discussing electric vehicles, such as an e-rickshaw, the struggle gets even more real. Electric rickshaws are taking over in the EV industry. The e auto rickshaw price and features vary from one manufacturer to another. Commuters across India are rapidly adopting these battery-operated vehicles as a primary mode of transportation. However, when purchasing an electric auto rickshaw, it is essential to know how to maintain it for optimal long-lasting performance and lifespan, especially during the monsoon season.

Auto Rickshaw Care In Monsoon: Key Tips For Novice Drivers

For any novice auto rickshaw owner who finds tvs electric auto rickshaw price affordable and owns one, it is crucial to understand the importance of its maintenance for great performance and lifespan. Mentioned below are some of the most effective tips that you must follow to ensure optimal performance of your vehicle this monsoon season:

1. Electrical short circuit

As your e-rickshaw needs charging, there is a risk of electrical short circuits occurring during the monsoon season. Thunderstorms, untimely lightning, and power failures are among the common problems that can negatively impact your EV's electrical system. While your vehicle is being charged, a sudden rise in current can occur due to a power shortage or water splashing, which may result in short circuits.

• Precaution: Although the e-rickshaw components are designed to manage minor waterlogging and water splashing, it is essential to protect your vehicle from such risks. Hence, ensure that your vehicle's charging point is covered and the plug and charging cable are away from any water splashing. Additionally, avoid charging your vehicle during thunderstorms or lightning as a precautionary measure to prevent any risk of fire.

2. Battery health

The auto rickshaw batteries are mostly created from lithium-ion, which is sensitive to higher temperatures. Any overheating in this case could result in damaging the battery. During rainfall, the temperature fluctuates, which eventually poses a risk to the battery's temperature and health. Furthermore, any power fluctuation, due to a thunderstorm or lightning, can also result in damaging the internal circuit and battery.

• Precaution: Ensure that you do not charge your auto rickshaw for more than one hour, as this may cause the battery to overheat. Also, avoid using an incompatible charger and only use the original charger. Avoid fast charging your vehicle as it can result in a short circuit and increase the risk of fire.

3.  Water ingression

Water ingression is a major problem that electric auto rickshaws encounter during heavy rainfall. By parking your auto rickshaw in areas that are prone to excessive waterlogging, you can experience internal damage to the electrical system. While the motor and battery of the vehicle are designed to be waterproof, there are multiple levels to this protection.

• Precaution: Although there are standards according to the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system that auto rickshaw manufacturers must follow, water ingression may still damage your vehicle. Ensure that you avoid driving on waterlogged roads and get regular maintenance done to prevent any issues.

4.  Corrosion and rodent attack

The e-rickshaw is equipped with a complex wiring system featuring high-tension wiring. During the rainy season, such wires are at a great risk of corrosion and rodent attacks due to their surroundings. A minor bite at your vehicle's wiring system can result in mechanical failure. Similarly, the presence of dust particles, moisture in the air, and continuous rainfall can lead to the corrosion of wires and electrical connectors.

• Precaution: To manage this issue, ensure that your vehicle is only parked in dry areas. A moisture-free and clean parking area will help prevent rodents from infesting the area. If you fail to do so, ensure to use waterproof covers to prevent water droplets from entering the EV.

5.  Monitor the tire pressure

At times, your vehicle's tire pressure may not be suitable due to travelling on rough roads or other accidents. However, a good tire pressure is crucial to maintain the performance and stability of your electric auto rickshaw.

• Precaution: Regularly checking the tire pressure ensures it aligns with the recommended range. Underinflated tires might result in punctures, reduced fuel efficiency, and uneven wear and tear.

E-Rickshaw Maintenance: Other Safety Measures

Apart from the major maintenance steps given above for your auto rickshaw, you must also ensure to keep a check on the following basic measures:

1. Clean your vehicle regularly

Cleaning the interiors as well as exteriors of your vehicle regularly not only maintains its appearance but also keeps its performance up and offers protection from harm caused by exposure to the outside elements. With regular cleaning, you can also control corrosion and rust from negatively affecting the metal parts of the vehicle. Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the body, and apply a protective spray to maintain the paint.

2. Lubricating the parts

Regular lubrication of your vehicle's moving parts, including gears, brakes, and suspension, helps ensure smooth functioning and operation. The lubrication reduces wear and friction, helping to maintain the parts' temperature and enhance their lifespan.

3. Check lighting

Regularly monitoring the lighting of your vehicle is crucial to upkeep signal lights, headlights and tail lights. Ensure that all lights are functioning properly and have efficient lighting. Ensure that burned-out lights are replaced, if any, and missing or damaged lens covers are replaced.

4. Check the suspension

Your electric rickshaw comes with a suspension system that is responsible for a comfortable and smooth ride, and it must be monitored regularly. By regularly checking the springs and shock absorbers, you can analyse the signs of damage beforehand and replace them in a timely manner. If the suspension becomes loose or the ride becomes bumpy, it is a signal that your suspension should be adjusted or repaired immediately.

Conclusion:

The auto rickshaw price is affordable for many and hence has become a major medium for urban transportation. Undoubtedly, monsoons bring relief from the extreme heat, but they also pose problems for electric vehicles. This is why it is crucial to offer extra care to your electric auto rickshaws during the rainy season. Be sure to follow the above-mentioned tips for caring for your vehicles, along with regular maintenance check-ups to detect any problems beforehand and resolve them as soon as possible.