A BYD Song Plus EV was struck by lightning three times in quick succession while driving through the Tieshan service area in Beihai, Guangxi. Dashcam footage from nearby vehicles captured the dramatic incident, showing flashes and electrical arcs as the lightning impacted the vehicle’s roof. Despite the intense electrical assault, the owner remained safely inside the car and emerged completely unharmed, with the vehicle’s crucial “three-electric” system (power battery, electric control, and motor) reported to be intact.

The incident, which occurred recently, saw lightning repeatedly strike the roof rack area of the BYD Song Plus EV, creating visible electrical arcs with each impact.

According to reports from the dealership’s professional technicians quoted by Chinese media Sanyan Tech, a comprehensive examination revealed no signs of short circuits in the vehicle’s power battery pack, electric control unit, or motor – the three core components of an electric vehicle’s powertrain. The inspection did identify two distinct lightning strike points on the roof, but the rest of the vehicle’s exterior remained undamaged.

Experts quoted by Sanyan Tech explain that the interior of a sealed metal-bodied car offers a relatively safe haven during a lightning strike due to the “Faraday cage” effect. When lightning hits the vehicle, the electrical current is conducted along the metal body to the ground, and occupants inside remain safe because they are at the same electrical potential as the vehicle body, preventing electrocution. It is advised that occupants should not immediately exit the vehicle to inspect it and should seek professional assistance.

For drivers caught in a thunderstorm and experiencing a lightning strike, safety protocols recommend immediately turning off all electronic devices, including the engine, audio system, and radio. All car antennas should be retracted, and windows must be fully closed to ensure the vehicle forms a completely enclosed space. Unless there is a fire or immediate life-threatening danger, occupants should remain inside the vehicle until the lightning activity subsides, adhering to the “wait 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before exiting” safety principle.

BYD Song Plus was China’s top exported car model in the first half of this year.