Travelers are being urged to exercise caution when using taxis abroad, particularly electric vehicles equipped with electronic door handles. Safety experts warn that these cars pose unique risks in emergency situations.

Recent incidents have highlighted a troubling pattern: passengers trapped inside electric taxis during battery fires and explosions. Because the door handles are electronically controlled, a sudden power cut can render them inoperable, leaving occupants unable to escape. In several cases, vehicles have been engulfed in flames within seconds, leading to fatalities.

Electric vehicle fires present additional challenges. Unlike conventional car fires, they are notoriously difficult to extinguish with water. In countries where emergency response infrastructure is limited, rescue teams often have no choice but to let the vehicle burn until it is completely destroyed.

Given these dangers, HQtest strongly advises travelers to avoid electric taxis until safer battery technologies are widely adopted. The risk of explosion and entrapment remains a serious concern, and prevention is the best protection.