Motion Sickness in Electric Vehicles: Why Some Passengers Feel Nauseous

Motion sickness in electric vehicles is affecting some passengers, yet research into the phenomenon remains limited. Multiple accounts reveal that some EV users experience nausea and dizziness during trips, prompting a few to avoid riding in them altogether.

Why do electric cars cause motion sickness?

Irene Di Giulio, a researcher at King's College London, says available studies suggest some people may be more susceptible to motion sickness in electric vehicles compared to conventional cars. The research is limited. Nicholas Hake, a motion sickness specialist, explains that the condition occurs due to a mismatch in sensory signals the body relies on to determine movement, coming from the eyes, inner ear, and other body parts.

Regenerative braking and rapid response

BYD and other electric vehicles differ from conventional cars in the nature of sounds and vibrations accompanying movement. Their rapid response to acceleration and deceleration can intensify symptoms for some passengers. Regenerative braking is one factor that may increase dizziness, as the car begins to slow down the moment the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator. Sudden deceleration can cause a jerking motion for the passenger's body.

Lola Baird, 24, who lives in north London, said she never experienced motion sickness before her boyfriend bought an electric car about two years ago. She described feeling severe nausea on long trips. On one occasion had to ask her boyfriend to stop after about 40 minutes, before vomiting beside the car. Lola isn't the only case, as several owners of Hyundai and Nissan electric cars reported suffering or their children suffering from dizziness. Others confirm they feel no symptoms at all, with some even finding EVs less nausea-inducing than conventional cars.

How can motion sickness be reduced?

Experts recommend a calm driving style and avoiding sudden acceleration and harsh braking as much as possible. Setting regenerative braking to its lowest level helps reduce abrupt deceleration. Sitting in the front seat and looking at the distant road reduces conflicting sensory signals. Some passengers may need a period of adaptation to BYD or Hyundai EVs before symptoms fade. No single solution fits everyone, but awareness of the issue is a first step toward more comfortable rides.