CAR Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Processing 3

Question 1

A recycler is processing a flood-damaged Tesla Model 3. Which action should be taken FIRST before any other disassembly step?

Accepted Answer

Isolate the 12V auxiliary battery to disable the high-voltage contactor circuit

Answer

Disconnecting the 12V auxiliary battery opens the BMS control circuit, preventing the high-voltage contactors from closing and energizing the drive system.

Question 2

Under EPA regulations, a used EV high-voltage battery pack that tests above 80% capacity and is resold for second-life energy storage is classified as:

Accepted Answer

A reuse product, not a solid waste

Answer

EPA's solid waste definition excludes materials that are legitimately reused as products; a battery sold into second-life storage avoids solid waste classification.

Question 3

What is the function of the pyrotechnic safety switch (PSS) found in some EV battery packs such as those in BMW i3 vehicles?

Accepted Answer

It permanently severs the high-voltage circuit upon deployment of airbags

Answer

The PSS uses a small explosive charge to physically cut the high-voltage bus bar, permanently isolating the battery when the airbag control module detects a severe crash.

Question 4

When testing a recovered EV battery pack for second-life potential, which parameter is the most critical indicator of remaining usable capacity?

Accepted Answer

State of health (SOH) measured via capacity test

Answer

SOH—expressed as a percentage of original rated capacity—is the definitive measure of battery degradation and determines suitability for second-life applications.

Question 5

A recycling facility worker notices a stored EV battery emitting a sweet or chemical odor and feels warm to the touch. The correct immediate response is to:

Accepted Answer

Move it to an outdoor fire containment area and notify the fire department

Answer

Odd odors and heat are early thermal runaway indicators; the pack must be moved outside immediately and emergency services alerted before full runaway occurs.

(CAR) Certified Automotive Recycler Practice Test

(CAR) Certified Automotive Recycler Practice Test

CAR Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Processing 3