The ‘pregnant’ cars: What’s happening?
The video, which has garnered significant attention online, shows several cars with their exteriors swollen, creating a “pregnant” appearance.This peculiar sight is not a result of mechanical issues or manufacturing defects but is directly linked to the soaring temperatures in China. The intense heat has caused the protective films or wraps applied to the cars to expand, leading to the swollen look.
Understanding car wraps: Why are they swelling?
Car wraps are thin vinyl films applied to vehicles to protect the paint, add aesthetic appeal, or display advertisements. These wraps are designed to withstand various weather conditions, but extreme heat can test their limits. According to experts at Wrap Guys, prolonged exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight can compromise the durability and appearance of car wraps. The heat causes the adhesive backing to weaken, leading to bubbling, stretching, and in some cases, the kind of swelling observed in the viral video.
While car wraps typically have a UV-protective layer to guard against such issues, the record-breaking temperatures in China have proven to be too much for some of these wraps. The swelling occurs when the adhesive off-gases and the trapped air expands, creating unsightly bubbles that make the cars look inflated.
Social media reactions on pregnant cars
The video, shared on August 6, quickly went viral, amassing over 700,000 views and sparking a flurry of reactions. Users flooded the comments section with a mix of humour, concern, and speculation. One user questioned the quality of the adhesive used in the wraps, while another cautioned against popping the bubbles, citing the potential release of toxic gases. A third user pointed out that poor-quality paint protection films are likely to expand when exposed to excessive heat, leading to the phenomenon seen in the video.
Expert insights: The importance of quality and maintenance
Experts emphasise that while most car wraps are designed to handle a range of environmental conditions, extreme heat can still pose a challenge. High-quality wraps with strong adhesives and proper installation are less likely to experience severe issues, but even these require regular maintenance to ensure longevity. Car owners are advised to park in shaded areas, use sunshades, and perform routine inspections to prevent damage caused by heat.
Also read | China’s new energy vehicles outpace traditional cars for the first time: Market trends, Government support, and global comparison