The “pregnant” cars: What’s going on?
The video, which has garnered widespread attention online, shows several cars whose exteriors have swollen, giving them a “pregnant” appearance. This strange sight is not the result of mechanical problems or manufacturing defects, but is directly related to the high temperatures in China. The intense heat has caused the protective films or wrappings on the cars to expand, giving them the swollen appearance.
Understanding car films: Why do they swell?
Car wraps are thin vinyl films applied to vehicles to protect paint, add visual appeal, or display advertising. These wraps are designed to withstand various weather conditions, but extreme heat can push them to their limits. According to experts at Wrap Guys, prolonged exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight can affect the durability and appearance of car wraps. The heat weakens the adhesive backing, causing blistering, stretching, and in some cases the type of swelling seen in the viral video.
While car wraps usually have a UV protective layer to guard against such problems, the record high temperatures in China have proved too much for some of these films. The swelling occurs when the adhesive off-gasses and the trapped air expands, creating unsightly bubbles that make the cars look bloated.
Social media reactions to pregnant cars
The video, shared on August 6, quickly spread online, garnering over 700,000 views and sparking a torrent of reactions. Users flooded the comments section with a mix of humor, concern, and speculation. One user questioned the quality of the adhesive used for the films, while another warned against popping the bubbles as doing so could release 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 stress that while most car wraps are designed to withstand a range of environmental conditions, extreme heat can still pose a challenge. High-quality wraps with strong adhesives and proper installation experience less serious problems, but even these require regular maintenance to ensure longevity. Car owners are advised to park in shaded areas, use sunshades and conduct regular inspections to avoid heat damage.
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