Are EV Drivers Exposed to Radiation Risks? A Recent Study Provides Insights | Carscoops

      Researchers have examined the levels of radiation that drivers and passengers encounter while driving and charging electric vehicles.

      A recent study aimed to assess if electric vehicles (EVs) expose occupants to hidden radiation by evaluating 11 different electric cars during operation and charging. Engineers utilized dummies equipped with sensors to measure real-world conditions.

      The findings offer reassuring news for those concerned that sitting atop a large battery might make them more susceptible to radiation. The study indicates that electric cars are not the radiation hotbeds some may fear.

      Conducted by Germany's ADAC auto club, the research focused on electromagnetic fields within electric vehicles and discovered that drivers and passengers are subjected to very low radiation levels.

      In fact, the results indicated that EVs are no more hazardous than any other contemporary vehicle, and in some instances, they emit lower levels of electromagnetic – or “electrosmog” – activity compared to traditional combustion-engine vehicles.

      What Was Tested?

      The study was commissioned by Germany’s Federal Office for Radiation Protection and involved testing eleven electric vehicles, along with a few hybrids and one standard gasoline car.

      ADAC engineers placed ten sensors into a dummy and adjusted it through at least two seating positions while the cars were in motion and being charged. The aim was to gauge the strength of the magnetic fields under practical scenarios and determine if any approached levels deemed risky by scientists.

      During the driving tests, the team noted a few brief increases in magnetic field strength during rapid acceleration and braking or when electrical components were activated. However, these spikes are typical in vehicles that utilize high-voltage systems and electric motors.

      What the Results Indicate

      ADAC's findings reveal that the electric fields and current densities that could potentially affect a human body under those circumstances remained significantly below the recommended safety limits.

      The higher values were primarily found in the footwell, rather than near the head, suggesting no adverse effects are occurring within the cabin that would impact cells, nerves, or pacemakers.

      An unexpected discovery involved heated seats, which yielded some of the highest electromagnetic readings. This was consistent across electric cars, plug-in hybrids, and the single combustion vehicle included in the study.

      Even with this, the readings were not hazardous. The most significant variations occurred in the footwell near the electric drive units and their wiring, while the head and torso areas showed minimal readings.

      Does Charging Alter Anything?

      Charging did not significantly affect the readings. AC charging generated stronger measurements around the plug when the session started, but these remained safely within all regulatory guidelines. Despite DC fast charging having a higher power output, it produced weaker fields compared to the slower AC charging.

      Sources: ADAC