Electric cars are growing more and more popular on the roads. However, while they are bringing cleaner ride, they are also potentially a lot more dangerous when being damaged in a collision. While chances are slim, there is a possibility one might get in contact with a high voltage electricity that could potentially be life endangering. That was good enough of a reason for Bosch to make a move and prevent such event before it is too late.

On a first glance, German idea is quite radical, yet completely logical. With a help of semiconductor chips they are able to cause controlled and small explosions. This helps to cut and isolate potentially damaged power cables that are connected to 400- to 800- volt batteries. On one hand this prevent passengers to get in contact with high voltage, while on the others it also means help to first response team, that might need to help the passengers, trapped within the car. What is more interesting is the fact, that the system basically works similar to one being used to deploy air bags or activate belt tensioners, and that is all thanks to those microchips.

“Our semiconductor technology plays a vital role in the safety of hybrid and electric vehicles,” says Jens Fabrowsky, member of the executive management of Bosch’s Automotive Electronics division. “Faced with the growing number of electric vehicles that could potentially be involved in collisions, such systems are absolutely essential if we are to fulfill our mission of helping and rescuing victims of road accidents as rapidly and safely as possible,” adds Karl- Heinz Knorr, vice-president of the German firefighters association.