Mitsubishi i-MiEV Emergency Response Manual page 18

Case 4
Submerged vehicle
When a vehicle is submerged, flammable hydrogen gas may be generated from the Main drive
lithium-ion battery. After pulling the vehicle from the water, immediately flush the inside of the Main
drive lithium-ion battery using the following procedures.
CAUTION:
Flushing the Main drive lithium-ion battery immediately with fresh water will assist in:
 Reduction of flammable hydrogen gas formed by electrolyzing.
If water containing salt enters inside the Main drive lithium-ion battery while the vehicle is
submerged, there is a possibility that flammable hydrogen gas is generated from suddenly
electrolyzing. Therefore, it's necessary to pour fresh water into the Main drive lithium-ion
battery.
 Reduction of heat and/or ignition caused by short-circuit of the Main drive lithium-ion battery.
A short-circuit from water infiltrating into the Main drive lithium-ion battery can cause excessive
heating and fire. To prevent this from occurring, high voltage discharge and cooling are
necessary by filling the Main drive lithium-ion battery with fresh water.
 Process the drained water from the Main drive lithium-ion battery according to the rules of local
governments etc. as industrial waste properly. Since the drained water is an aqueous solution
containing a small amount (1 to several ppm) of metals such as P (Phosphorus) and Li (Lithium)
etc., advise industrial waste disposer for proper disposal.
1) Inspect the vehicle for damage. If you find serious damage to the vehicle and/or the Main drive
lithium-ion battery is deformed/damaged or the Main drive lithium-ion battery internals are exposed,
never touch the Main drive lithium-ion battery and high voltage cable.
2) Before pulling the vehicle from the water, wear appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE),
then drain the water from the cabin.
3) To reduce the risk of fire by flammable hydrogen gas, the vehicle should be kept in a
well-ventilated outside location with all windows, doors and liftgate open.
4) Remove the service lid.
CAUTION:
If flushing the Main drive lithium-ion battery cannot be performed due to the damage of the Main
drive lithium-ion battery etc., consult the nearest certified Mitsubishi EV dealer how to flush the Main
drive lithium-ion battery.
① Adjust the front left side seat to its rear most position and roll up the carpet under the seat.
Detach the service lid by removing two wing nuts.
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