Why Electric Cars Might Be Making Some Passengers Feel Sick
BBC News explores why some people experience motion sickness in electric vehicles (EVs), while others do not.
EV Drivers Love Their Cars, But Some Passengers Feel Sick
Lola Baird, 24, from north London, experienced severe nausea and vomiting during long car journeys in her boyfriend's EV, prompting him to consider a change. This phenomenon isn't isolated; other EV owners and passengers have reported similar feelings.
Possible Causes and Research Findings
- Dr Irene Di Giulio, senior lecturer at King's College London, suggests that research indicates some individuals suffer more severe motion sickness in EVs than traditional vehicles.
- Dr Nicholas Hac, a neurologist at Northwestern Medicine, has heard from numerous patients who experience motion sickness specifically in electric vehicles.
Early Research and Uncertain Findings
While anecdotes exist, Dr Bill Yates from the University of Pittsburgh notes that "the body of research is... sketchy at this point," emphasizing the need for more extensive studies to establish definitive conclusions.
Contrasting Experiences
Not all EV journeys are problematic. Mark Quigg from Lincolnshire found his electric vehicle wonderful to drive, but his nine-year-old daughter experienced significantly worse motion sickness, even on shorter trips. Other EV owners, however, reported no issues or less severe symptoms compared to traditional cars.
Industry Perspective
Vicky Edmonds, CEO of EVA England, an EV drivers' association, says motion sickness hasn't been raised as a concern among her members.