Why are cars getting PREGNANT in China?

New Delhi: China is currently grappling with record high temperatures, and it’s not just the people feeling the heat. An unusual consequence of the scorching weather has emerged—cars are appearing "pregnant." The cause? The protective films applied to car paints are inflating, leading to a bizarre and unexpected problem.

Pregnant cars take over social media

This unusual occurrence has quickly gained attention online, with many taking to social media to share images of these so-called "pregnant cars." The phenomenon is particularly visible in regions hit hardest by the heatwave. The inflating protective films give the cars an appearance as if they’re swelling up, leading to their quirky nickname.

🇨🇳Pregnant cars? It's a hot mess in China!

Record high temperatures in China have caused an unusual problem—protective films on car paints are inflating, leading to a phenomenon where people are calling them "pregnant cars."pic.twitter.com/KS29HJ8h5p

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 10, 2024

Unprecedented weather conditions behind the phenomenon

China’s heatwave has reached unprecedented levels, with temperatures soaring to record highs. The extreme heat has caused the adhesive used in these protective films to expand, resulting in the inflated appearance. This has created a hot mess for car owners, who now face the dilemma of whether to remove the film entirely or endure the inflated look.

Experts have weighed in on the issue, suggesting that while the phenomenon is largely cosmetic, it’s a stark reminder of the impact of extreme weather conditions. They recommend parking vehicles in shaded areas and avoiding direct sunlight to minimize the risk of the films inflating further.