Heatwave turns car cabins into ovens, raising safety and emissions concerns

Rising temperatures across Europe and the United States are turning vehicle interiors into furnaces. Studies show that cabin temperatures above 30 °C reduce driver reflexes by about 11 % and increase crash risk by 20 %. Vulnerable occupants such as children, the elderly and people with heart conditions are especially at risk of heat‑stroke.

Using the air‑conditioning system improves safety but increases fuel consumption by 5‑20 % in conventional cars and cuts electric‑vehicle range by roughly 10‑15 %. The additional energy use raises CO₂ emissions, while refrigerant gases still have notable global‑warming potential if leaked. Opening windows at highway speeds can double fuel use and expose occupants to fine particulate matter.

Experts recommend parking in shade, using windshield sun‑shades, briefly opening doors to vent hot air before starting the engine, and pre‑cooling the cabin via a smartphone app where available. Keeping the interior temperature no more than 6 °C below the outside temperature and avoiding full‑blast AC at start‑up are also advised.