What is the general safety guideline for electric and hybrid vehicles?

• A. Always assume the vehicle is powered up despite a lack of engine noise
• B. Always assume off
• C. Check with tester
• D. Remove battery first

Answer: (A)

At the heart of electric and hybrid vehicle safety is this rule: always assume the vehicle is powered up despite a lack of engine noise. High‑voltage systems can remain energized even when the car is not running, so treat the vehicle as dangerous until you’ve de-energized it using the proper procedures. This mindset prevents underestimating energy in cables, capacitors, or the high‑voltage battery, and it guides you to follow established steps to isolate power and involve trained personnel. The other ideas aren’t reliable: assuming it’s off can be misleading because energy may still be present; relying on a tester isn’t a substitute for proper de‑energization; and removing the battery first isn’t a safe or appropriate first action in most scenarios.