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A driver tried to recharge his car's battery by connecting it directly to a power pole. The result? A frightening explosion that went viral on social media. Experts explain why this is a dangerous practice and the risks of improvising with electrical systems.
An unusual and dangerous act put a driver from Goiás at the center of an explosion that could have had even more serious consequences.
The attempt to “fix” a battery discharged ended up resulting in a scene that went viral on the internet.
Do you know what happened when a car was connected directly to a power pole? Get ready to understand the risks and ignorance that almost caused a tragedy.
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Last Wednesday (11), in Goiânia (GO), security cameras captured the moment when a driver, apparently with no other option, decided to make a direct connection, popularly known as a “jump start”, between his vehicle and an electricity pole.
The result of this reckless attempt was an explosion so powerful that it threw the man backwards and set the pole on fire.
Despite the force of the impact, the driver suffered only minor injuries and did not require medical attention.
What is a battery jumper and why did the attempt fail?
According to experts, the “jump start” technique is widely used by drivers to recharge a discharged battery.
This procedure, which connects two vehicles via cables to transfer energy from one battery to another, is relatively safe when performed correctly and between compatible batteries.
However, trying to use a residential power source, such as a streetlight, is a serious and extremely dangerous mistake.
The main cause of the explosion was the fundamental difference between vehicle and residential power systems.
As explained by Leandro Marco, consultant at Delphi General Tech Automotive Diagnostic, “automotive power uses direct current (DC), low voltage and high amperage, while the power from a residential pole operates on alternating current (AC), with high voltage and low current.”
He also highlighted that this incompatibility creates a short circuit, which can result in explosions due to the acidic solution present in car batteries, which releases highly flammable vapors.
Risks of irreversible damage
In addition to the physical injuries to the driver, the incident caused damage to both the vehicle and the electrical infrastructure at the site.
Ailto Sola, Applications Engineer at Clarios Heliar, highlighted that the electrical voltage of the residential network is 127 V or 220 V in alternating current, values up to 18 times higher than the operating voltage of a vehicle, which uses only 12 V in direct current.
According to him, “the explosion probably damaged not only the electrical components of the pole, but also the internal systems of the vehicle”.
Another expert, Hugo Feitosa, technical manager at Mecanizou, warned about the dangers associated with improper handling of batteries: “Using the battery incorrectly can deactivate the car’s safety systems and cause irreversible damage.
In electric vehicles, the risk is even greater. Always seek a specialist to avoid serious problems.”
The immediate reaction and consequences of the accident
After the explosion, the pole was on fire, and pedestrians passing by the area mobilized to control the fire until a team from the electricity company arrived, which restored power to the area.
The Fire Department was not called, as the fire was quickly contained by locals. Despite the relief that there were no serious injuries, the incident served as a warning about the inappropriate use of electrical systems.
Why is technical knowledge essential?
The case of Goiânia illustrates a serious lack of technical information among Professional Drivers.
Experts emphasize that voltage and current differences between power systems are critical and cannot be ignored.
Any attempt to improvise with electrical systems can not only cause material damage, but also put lives at risk.
The recklessness of connecting a car directly to a pole is not only a risky move, but also proof of how a lack of technical knowledge can have catastrophic consequences.
Lessons from the case: what to do when your car battery runs out?
If your car runs out of battery, seek professional help or use appropriate techniques such as jump starting two compatible vehicles.
Here are some important tips to avoid dangerous situations:
- Always check battery compatibility before connecting directly.
- Use good quality cables and inspect them to ensure they are in good condition.
- Avoid touching the battery if you do not have the necessary technical knowledge.
- If in doubt, call a specialized professional to assess the situation.
Dangerous improvisation or lack of information?
This incident, which could have resulted in tragedy, reveals not only the risks of improvisation, but also the need for awareness about electrical systems.
Have you ever tried to improvise a solution to a problem with your car? Tell us in the comments what was the biggest “hack” you’ve ever seen someone try in traffic!
