Are Magnetic Fields in Electric and Hybrid Cars Harmful to Humans?

EVs and hybrids will revolutionize the way we drive by providing cleaner, more sustainable alternatives to traditional petrol cars. But as these cars get more widespread, some people wonder:

Could the magnetic fields that electric and hybrid cars produce harm our health?

Let’s try to understand this question in the most simple way.

What Are Magnetic Fields, and Why Do They Matter?

Magnetic fields are forces produced invisibly when electricity travels through a wire or device. Think of a magnet you stick to your fridge – there’s a force that keeps it in place.

Likewise, when electricity supplies the motor and battery of an electric or hybrid car, it generates a magnetic field. The cables, which carry electricity between the motor, battery and other elements, provide another source of these fields.

We find these fields everywhere, produced by commonplace objects such as power lines and even the Earth itself. But researchers have been tracking what happens when individuals get exposed to higher concentrations over time, such as in electric and hybrid vehicles.

Would this have medical consequences?

What Does the Research Say About Magnetic Fields?

Researchers have long studied magnetic fields, especially those from utility poles and home appliances. According to some studies, prolonged exposure can raise the risk of certain diseases such as childhood cancer (source: American Cancer Society).

Such findings prompted concerns about whether the same fields that exist in electric and hybrid vehicles might be dangerous.

A report by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) concluded that, for certain circumstances, the magnetic fields of electric and hybrid cars might be greater than those recommended by health agencies for long-term use (source: JRC Publications Repository).

Are Pregnant Women More at Risk?

One point of concern is the impact of magnetic fields on pregnant women. One published paper reported a connection between higher magnetic fields and higher miscarriage rates. For instance, women exposed to stronger magnetic fields – such as those near high-power electrical appliances – were more likely to develop pregnancy problems than those who had lesser exposures (source: Nature).

Does this mean all pregnant women who drive an electric or hybrid car are in danger? There could be danger in certain cases, the study states, but we need more research to know for sure. For now, it is a good idea to stay safe, especially for individuals in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women.

How Do Magnetic Fields in Cars Compare to Everyday Devices?

You could imagine a electric or hybrid vehicle as a giant machine, something like a washing machine. Such machines also generate magnetic fields, but you rarely sit with them right there for hours on end. In a car, though, you’re closer to the point of source of the field – the battery and motor – and therefore you’re likely to spend more time in it.

Why Take Precautions?

Despite the inconclusive magnetic field evidence, groups such as the European Commission advocate a “better safe than sorry” policy. It is the precautionary principle, which simply translates to: we should minimize exposure when we have the means to do so (source: European Commission).

For example, if there’s a possibility that cumulative hours sitting under the influence of a powerful magnetic field will harm you, why not try to avoid that? These little adjustments are the kind that really can go a long way.

There are also some new solutions such as SafeFields that can be used to shield or minimize magnetic field contact. It’s a smart way to keep yourself safe and continue to take advantage of the electric and hybrid vehicles.

Be Informed, Be Cautious

The dangers of magnetic fields in electric and hybrid cars pose critical safety issues. Do you feel that these risks are serious enough to affect your choice of car? Are you doing anything to keep exposure as low as possible for you and your family?

While we continue to embrace novel technologies, it’s imperative that we deal with their unattended risks. Knowing and being aware can empower you to make better choices regarding your health and safety when it comes to EVs and hybrid vehicles.