The safety of electric cars has been called into question after a crash involving a BYD taxi in China resulted in a huge explosion.

Chinese manufacturer BYD's e6 electric car reportedly burst into flames after being hit by an apparent drunk driver in a sports car. The driver and passengers were burnt beyond recognition.

The driver of what appears to be a Nissan GT-R fled the scene after the accident, but later turned himself over to authorities.

Check out a news clip on the incident below. A passing taxi driver caught the ensuing blaze on camera.