While electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular for their running efficiency, a growing number of passengers have reported experiencing symptoms of motion sickness while traveling in these cars. These reports suggest a potential link between the unique engineering characteristics of EVs and feelings of nausea and disorientation.
Passenger Reports and Anecdotal Evidence
Some individuals report severe symptoms, such as nausea, when riding in electric vehicles. For instance, Lola Baird, 24, residing in north London, noted that she began experiencing extreme symptoms two years ago, coinciding with her boyfriend purchasing an electric car. She described feeling “very nauseous” during long journeys, so much so that she has asked him to switch vehicles. Another passenger, Mark Quigg, 45, from Lincolnshire, observed that his nine-year-old daughter’s motion sickness significantly worsened after switching to a new EV. Previously, his daughter only experienced symptoms on 600-mile school trips to France, but now even a short 30-minute trip to the nearest city can cause her to feel unwell, on one occasion leading to vomiting.
These accounts are not isolated. Lucinda Harrison, 24, from London, stated that she frequently takes taxis that are electric and must endure the ride feeling “nauseous, sweaty and clammy.” Conversely, many EV owners shared their experiences with news organizations, noting that they and their family members do not experience sickness in EVs, and some even reported feeling less unwell in EVs compared to traditional gasoline or diesel cars.
Expert Analysis on Motion Sickness and EVs
Medical and scientific professionals studying motion sickness have noted similar patterns. Dr Irene Di Giulio, a senior lecturer in anatomy and biomechanics at King’s College London, stated that current research indicates that some individuals may suffer more severely from motion sickness when traveling in electric vehicles compared to conventional cars.
Dr Nicholas Hac, a neurologist specializing in dizziness and vertigo at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, confirmed hearing this pattern from his patients. He noted that patients frequently report being “much more likely or prone to be motion sick” in electric vehicles. According to Dr Hac, he hears about this specific concern from approximately two patients each month.
Despite the anecdotal reports, some experts caution that definitive conclusions are premature. Dr Bill Yates, who has conducted research on motion sickness at the University of Pittsburgh, stated that the existing body of research is “pretty sketchy at this point,” noting that while there is anecdotal information, extensive and rigorous studies are still needed.
Potential Technical Causes
Motion sickness is fundamentally described by Dr Hac as occurring due to a “mismatch in sensory cues.” The body relies on three primary inputs to confirm movement: what the eyes see, what the inner ear’s balance system detects, and what the body’s internal fibers sense. When these signals conflict—for example, looking at a phone screen prevents visual confirmation of movement outside the window—nausea can result.
Experts suggest several reasons why EVs might exacerbate this condition:
- Lack of Auditory Cues: Dr Di Giulio explained that humans are accustomed to associating sound and vibration with movement in vehicles. Because EVs lack the characteristic engine noises and vibrations associated with acceleration, this missing sensory input may trigger motion sickness.
- Regenerative Braking: This process, where the motor acts as a generator to slow the car and recharge the battery, can create resistance and sudden speed changes. Dr Hac explained that this sudden change in speed can make the occupant feel like they are “rocking back and forth for that brief moment.” Carolyn Le, 24, from California, confirmed this, stating that the constant nature of regenerative braking makes the car “constantly feel like the car is stopping all the time.”
- Acceleration Rate: Di Giulio also noted that the ability of EVs to accelerate and decelerate much faster than traditional cars can contribute to motion sickness.
Chinese EV manufacturer XPeng publicly acknowledged the concern, stating that the reported link was “not your imagination” and was caused by “side effects of how electric cars are engineered.”
Mitigation Strategies and Future Development
While the industry and some experts are developing solutions, several preventative measures have been advised to passengers:
- Look out the front window and avoid engaging in activities like reading or using phones.
- If possible, occupy the front passenger seat, or if seated in the back, choose the middle seat to maintain a clear view of the front.
- Keep the head steady by resting it against the headrest, reclining the seat, and regulating breathing.
- Open the window for fresh air and ensure adequate hydration, sleep, and non-greasy food before the journey.
- Travel sickness tablets can be used, though caution is advised as they may cause drowsiness.
According to Prof John Golding, who has studied the subject, while genetics plays the largest role in susceptibility, the body can become desensitized to motion sickness through prolonged exposure to driving. Furthermore, Prof Cyriel Diels, a mobility design professor, suggested several design improvements carmakers could implement, including software to smooth rapid acceleration, adding subtle seat vibrations and sound systems to signal movement, and offering adaptive regenerative braking that reduces sudden deceleration.
The market context supports the need for research into this area. Latest Department for Transport figures show that the number of new zero-emission cars registered in the UK increased by 40.5% between April to June 2026, compared to the same period in 2025. By the end of June 2026, zero-emission vehicles accounted for 5.8% of all licensed cars on UK roads, ahead of the scheduled ban on new purely petrol or diesel car sales from 2030.
