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Your Comprehensive Guide to Electromagnetic Radiation in Cars

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Is It Safe to Sit in an Electric Car While Charging?

7 hours ago
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inside electric car while charging

Sitting in an electric car while it’s charging isn’t entirely without concern, especially when it comes to exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Research shows that EMFs are present and can be significantly stronger during charging.

What Happens During Charging?

When an EV is plugged in, the process of drawing high currents to recharge the battery produces both static and extremely low-frequency (ELF) magnetic fields.

According to studies, these fields can reach intensities that, while typically within recommended limits for acute/short term exposure, may still raise questions about long-term, cumulative exposure. This is particularly relevant for passengers sitting in close proximity to components like the battery or power electronics during charging.

Measurements taken based on the report Complex Electromagnetic Issues Associated with the Use of Electric Vehicles in Urban Transportation shows that magnetic field levels during charging can peak significantly higher than when the vehicle is simply operating. In particular, field strengths as high as 100 µT have been observed near direct current (DC) charging stations, especially in areas near the battery or cables​. These values are still below the occupational exposure limits recommended by bodies like ICNIRP, but they are substantially above average background levels.

Health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the German Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS), advise applying precautionary principles, particularly because ELF magnetic fields are classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as “possibly carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2B).

Long-Term Health Risks

Importantly, the exact health implications of such exposures (especially over the long term) are still not fully understood. Current studies, particularly from the BioInitiative Report, underline that these fields are biologically active and potentially capable of influencing cellular processes. That’s why experts recommend reducing unnecessary exposure, particularly for sensitive individuals or during prolonged charging sessions.

While it’s not inherently dangerous to sit in an electric vehicle during charging, the EMF exposure is higher than during regular driving and should be considered especially for:

  • Children
  • Pregnant individuals
  • People who are particularly concerned about EMF sensitivity

Limiting time spent inside the car while it’s charging, or maintaining a bit of distance from high-current components, can help reduce the potential risks.