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EVs are the future of transportation. In 2010, The ICNIRP referenced levels for electromagnetic radiation exposure in a car were surpassed by EVs. EVs had exposures of less than 2% at head height for the front passenger position. In contrast, conventional powertrains emitted only 10% of the reference levels. So, which cars have the lowest electromagnetic radiation? This article will take a look at the electrical systems, batteries, and the Smart Key.
Electrical Systems
When it comes to electrical systems in electric cars, they have to be designed with the least amount of electromagnetic radiation in mind. A car’s proximity to the electrical systems is another key factor that can cause higher EMF exposure for the driver and passengers. The smallest distance between an electric car and its passengers should be as short as possible. Even if a vehicle does not have a lot of electrical equipment, it’s still possible to be exposed to EMF radiation through the electric system.
Batteries
In a hybrid or electric vehicle, the battery is the source of EMF radiation. Batteries from conventional cars, however, are DC. When currents are changed, they create a temporary DC voltage. The lower the EMF concentration of a battery, the less exposure a driver will have to EMF radiation. Batteries for electric cars should be located in the hood, so they are far removed from the driver’s body.
Power Cables
The ICNIRP has released guidelines for electromagnetic fields in vehicles. Electric cars and hybrid cars both produce EMFs, but the exposures were much lower for EVs. Exposure levels in EVs were 20% of the ICNIRP 2010 reference levels near the foot and the head, and less than two percent for the head in the front passenger position. For comparison, exposure levels for conventional powertrains were only 10% and twenty times higher, respectively.
Batteries in Hybrids
Unlike conventional car batteries, which are usually located under the hood, hybrid electric cars are laden with AC power sources. This power source can generate high levels of EMF radiation. Conventional car batteries, on the other hand, are DC power sources. The chemical reaction inside the battery creates a temporary DC voltage. However, drivers who are sensitive to EMFs may experience an increased response to the radiation. The farther away from the source, the safer the vehicle will be.
Other Electronic Systems in The Cabin
Electric cars emit large amounts of electromagnetic radiation. This radiation is generated by the powertrain, which has many electronic systems and components that emit ELF or very low-frequency magnetic fields. The cabin and other areas of the vehicle are also close to power devices, which can expose passengers to high levels of ELF radiation. Some studies have shown that EMF radiation can have adverse health effects, such as causing DNA fragmentation and cell damage.
Shielding Measures
The number of electric cars on the road is increasing, which in turn increases the need for high EMC compliance. The importance of autonomous driving adds additional requirements. In this context, flat wire mesh can provide promising shielding properties. The flat wire itself is very suitable for electromagnetic shielding, as it has a small pore size and high surface coverage. Moreover, it is characterized by good shielding effects in the short-wave to microwave range and excellent vapor permeability.
Recommendations for Protecting Yourself
The best way to protect yourself from EMF exposure while driving an electric car is to take a few simple precautions. While the radiation exposure from EVs is much lower than in other vehicles, it’s still higher than the amount that most people are exposed to at home and work. Scientists worry about the long-term exposure of people to electric cars, but there’s no scientific evidence to support these fears.