Introduction
In 2022 alone, 1.31 million Teslas were sold. It’s becoming clear that the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) is growing more than ever before. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global EV fleet expanded to 10 million in 2020, a milestone that testifies to the seismic shift in the automobile industry. Now that you’re aware of the EMF radiation in all cars – is it any different for EVs?
EMF and EVs
Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs) are invisible energy areas that surround electrical devices. While all electronic devices emit some level of EMFs, the concentration varies based on the device’s power and proximity to the user. Vehicles, irrespective of their fuel type, are no exception. But, the question arises – how do electric vehicles stand in terms of EMF radiation as compared to their conventional and hybrid counterparts?
Research
A study in 2022 analyzed EMF exposure in several car types, including EVs, hybrids, and combustion-engine vehicles. The researchers concluded that, under regular driving conditions, EMF exposure inside EVs did not exceed the reference levels recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). However, it is important to note that these levels were set in 1998 – and have not been amended despite more research being published, and discovering new ways EMFs can be damaging to our health.
The Tesla Example
To put things in perspective, let’s consider a real-life example. A Tesla Model S, a popular EV, was examined for its EMF radiation levels in a case study by EMF Academy. The tests revealed that the average EMF levels in the driver’s seat at different speeds were well within the ICNIRP’s guidelines. Another experiment examined the EMF levels in the same Tesla Model S using an EMF meter and found that the levels near the front of the car exceeded 100mG (which is not safe for prolonged exposure).
Check out The Wave’s 2024 check-in on the topic of EMF in cars by clicking through the article below.
Discussion and Conclusion
It’s essential to note that the automotive industry is taking significant strides to mitigate EMFs. Car manufacturers like Nissan and BMW are investing heavily in design modifications and shielding techniques to limit EMF exposure. These improvements aim to ensure that as the popularity and use of EVs increase, so too does their safety in terms of EMF emissions.
In conclusion, electric vehicles may emit higher EMFs compared to traditional combustion-engine cars, and while they are generally within the recommended safety levels, this does not mean they are conclusively safe. Moreover, hybrid vehicles might even display higher EMFs than EVs due to their dual-motor design. The onus is now on car manufacturers to continue innovating, not just for better performance and less environmental impact but also for reduced EMF emissions.
Understanding the interplay between EMFs and EVs is crucial in our rapidly evolving transportation landscape. While the shift towards EVs is a promising step for environmental sustainability, ensuring the health and safety of passengers is of paramount importance. As we accelerate towards a greener future, the focus must remain on creating safe, efficient, and sustainable modes of transport. However, even though EVs may emit radiation levels that are well under permitted levels, the compounded effects from the other electronic devices we might have in the car can make the effects even more intense. Equipped with this knowledge – you’re ready to take action!
