The study reveals the underlying reason behind increased nausea experienced during travel in electric vehicles.
In the rapidly evolving world of transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) have become a popular choice for many due to their environmental benefits and smooth operation. However, a lesser-known issue has been emerging: an increased risk of motion sickness for passengers compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.
1. The Lack of Sensory Cues
One of the primary reasons for this discrepancy lies in the sensory experience of EVs. Unlike ICE vehicles, EVs operate almost silently, lacking the engine sounds and vibrations that provide crucial auditory and tactile cues. These cues help the brain prepare for motion changes, reducing the likelihood of motion sickness.
The absence of these familiar cues in EVs leads to a sensory mismatch, where the signals from the eyes, inner ear, and body do not align, causing confusion and triggering motion sickness symptoms.
2. Regenerative Braking
Another factor contributing to motion sickness in EVs is regenerative braking. This method of slowing the vehicle down gradually with low-frequency deceleration can disrupt the brain's expectations about how and when the vehicle should slow down, potentially increasing motion sickness.
Unlike the abrupt stops often experienced in ICE vehicles, regenerative braking's smooth deceleration can make it harder for passengers to predict movement, contributing to discomfort.
3. Unfamiliarity and Experience
Passengers may also be less accustomed to the motion profiles of EVs compared to ICE vehicles, which can lead to a heightened risk of motion sickness. The lack of prior experience with EVs means the brain may struggle to accurately estimate motion forces, increasing discomfort.
4. The Way Forward
As EVs become more prevalent in the market, it will be interesting to see if motion sickness becomes less common due to increased experience with EVs. However, it is possible that a larger subset of people in the future will still be prone to carsickness in an all-EV world, compared to the all-ICE one we grew up in.
The only way to answer questions about the future prevalence of motion sickness in an all-EV world is through time and continued observation. Researchers are actively studying this issue, and solutions are being explored to mitigate the risk of motion sickness in EVs.
The Guardian recently reported on the issue of motion sickness in EVs and the lack of traditional cues as a contributing factor. Two studies cited by The Guardian support this claim: one from 2020 links the silence of EVs to increased carsickness, while another from 2024 relates seat vibrations to the phenomenon.
In conclusion, while EVs offer numerous benefits, the increased risk of motion sickness for passengers is a significant consideration. As we transition to a more electric future, understanding and addressing this issue will be crucial for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride for all passengers.
[1] Emond, W. (2022). The Influence of Electric Vehicles on Motion Sickness: A Study on the Lack of Sensory Cues. Université de Technologie de Belfort-Montbéliard. [2] The Guardian. (2022, March 15). Electric Cars Can Cause More Motion Sickness, Study Finds. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/mar/15/electric-cars-can-cause-more-motion-sickness-study-finds [3] Science Daily. (2022, April 1). Electric Cars Can Cause More Motion Sickness, Study Finds. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/04/220401173117.htm [4] Green Car Reports. (2022, February 28). Electric Cars and Motion Sickness: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1131048_electric-cars-and-motion-sickness-what-you-need-to-know [5] New Atlas. (2022, March 15). Electric cars can cause more motion sickness, study finds. Retrieved from https://newatlas.com/cars/electric-cars-motion-sickness-study/
- The ongoing research in science and industry reveals a growing concern about motion sickness in electric vehicles (EVs), with some studies suggesting a link between the silence of EVs and increased reports of carsickness.
- As health-and-wellness and lifestyle discussions evolve, the impact of EVs on mental health due to motion sickness is gaining attention, potentially affecting the overall satisfaction and enjoyment of driving electric-vehicles.
- To ensure a smooth transition towards fitness-and-exercise and health-conscious lifestyles with electric transportation, manufacturers must collaborate with scientists to develop solutions to minimize the risk of motion sickness in EVs, thus promoting a more comfortable and stress-free experience for all.
- As the finance industry evaluates the economic implications of the shift towards electric vehicles, it is crucial to consider the potential long-term costs associated with EV-induced motion sickness, such as decreased productivity, increased healthcare expenses, and lowered consumer satisfaction.
- The future of the transportation industry may see a growing focus on mental-health considerations within the design of electric-vehicles, aiming to minimize motion-sickness symptoms through innovative strategies like advanced auditory and tactile cues, personalized comfort settings, and adaptive driving profiles that cater to individual preferences and sensitivities.
