Electric vehicles may increase motion sickness severity

Motion sickness, medically known as kinetosis, is caused by a sensory conflict where the brain receives contradictory signals. This occurs when the inner ear perceives movement while the eyes focus on a stationary object, such as the interior of a vehicle or a digital screen.

Recent observations suggest that the prevalence or intensity of motion sickness may be higher in electric vehicles (EVs). Because EVs lack the engine vibrations and noise found in internal combustion engine vehicles, the human brain lacks the auditory and tactile cues it typically uses to anticipate acceleration and braking. Studies indicate that the intensity of kinetosis in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) may be approximately 10% to 30% higher due to this lack of sensory feedback.