Do People Feel the Effects of Carsickness More in Electric Vehicles?

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity globally, with 22% of new car sales in 2024 being electric, compared to 18% in 2023, a growing number of consumers are expressing concern about experiencing carsickness more frequently when traveling in EVs. Riders, particularly in the back seat or as passengers, have taken to social media to share their discomfort, questioning whether EVs contribute to a greater likelihood of motion sickness compared to traditional gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles.

The idea that people might feel more carsick in EVs than in internal combustion engine (ICE) cars isn’t just anecdotal—it’s supported by emerging scientific research that highlights the unique factors of EV driving that may contribute to nausea and discomfort during rides.

Why Do People Feel More Sick in EVs?

The scientific explanation for this phenomenon is rooted in how our brains anticipate and interpret the motions of the vehicle. In traditional ICE vehicles, drivers and passengers are accustomed to certain cues—such as the revving of the engine, torque shifts, and seat vibrations—that signal upcoming acceleration or deceleration. These familiar sensory signals help the brain prepare for changes in motion, reducing the likelihood of motion sickness.

However, in electric vehicles, the absence of these traditional cues can lead to confusion for the brain, as it tries to reconcile the lack of sensory input with the vehicle's movement. This is especially true in EVs where the electric motor runs quietly, offering no engine revs or audible changes to indicate acceleration or deceleration.

The Role of Regenerative Braking and Low-Frequency Deceleration

One of the key features contributing to increased motion sickness in EVs is regenerative braking. This technology, which recycles the car’s kinetic energy to recharge the battery, causes the vehicle to slow down gradually, with low-frequency deceleration. Unlike traditional brakes, which apply a quick, sharp deceleration, regenerative braking in EVs works more smoothly and steadily, which can cause an unsettling experience for passengers.

A study published in 2024 concluded that regenerative braking is one of the primary causes of motion sickness in electric vehicles. The study found a clear correlation between the intensity of regenerative braking and the severity of motion sickness, suggesting that the gradual deceleration associated with this system might disrupt the brain’s ability to anticipate motion, leading to discomfort.

How the Brain Responds to Mismatched Sensory Signals

Motion sickness occurs when there’s a conflict between the sensory signals received by the brain about the body’s movement. The inner ear, eyes, and body send different signals about motion, and when these signals don’t align, the brain interprets it as a situation of conflict—leading to nausea, dizziness, and other symptoms associated with carsickness.

In traditional vehicles, drivers are often less susceptible to motion sickness because they anticipate the vehicle's movements based on their previous experiences—accelerating, turning, and braking. In contrast, EVs, especially for new passengers or first-time EV users, provide fewer cues, making it more difficult for the brain to predict upcoming changes in motion. This lack of anticipation can trigger that unpleasant “neural mismatch,” which is believed to contribute to increased motion sickness.

The Role of Unfamiliar Motion Environments

As the brain encounters a new environment, such as a zero-gravity space or a new type of vehicle, it needs to adjust and adapt. In the case of EVs, the new “motion environment” includes the lack of the auditory and tactile clues that we are accustomed to in gasoline-powered vehicles. This mismatch, combined with features like regenerative braking, can increase the likelihood of nausea and discomfort, especially in longer trips or when riding in the back seat.

In fact, research shows that passengers in EVs, especially those who are not used to the smooth, silent motion of electric cars, may experience a delay in the brain’s adjustment to the new motion environment, causing symptoms of motion sickness. This is why passengers in the front seat may feel less affected, as they often have a clearer line of sight and a greater ability to anticipate movements compared to those in the back seat.

Can EV Motion Sickness Be Fixed?

As EVs continue to grow in popularity, researchers are looking for solutions to reduce motion sickness in electric cars. In fact, several studies have suggested that interactive visual cues, ambient lighting, and even vibrations may help passengers better anticipate motion changes, alleviating the discomfort associated with EV rides.

In autonomous EVs, some researchers have proposed using augmented reality or screens inside the vehicle to give passengers visual signals about upcoming movements, which could help their brains adjust. Similarly, using gentle vibrations or other sensory cues could provide the brain with the necessary information to prevent the feeling of motion sickness.

Conclusion: Adapting to EV Motion Environments

While it’s clear that motion sickness can be more pronounced in electric vehicles, particularly for those who are new to the technology, this issue can be mitigated with time and further advancements in vehicle design and technology. As consumers continue to adapt to the new motion environment of EVs, it’s likely that manufacturers will find ways to improve the riding experience for those affected by carsickness.

Until then, passengers prone to motion sickness may want to ensure that they are familiar with the vehicle's features, such as regenerative braking, and take steps to reduce the risk, such as sitting in the front seat or adjusting their posture during longer trips. As EVs become the norm, understanding how to alleviate this issue will help ensure a smoother ride for all.

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