Tesla VP Debunks Radiation Concerns, Cites Model 3's 0.8% to 2.6% Magnetic Field Intensity

On April 10, Tesla's Vice President, Tao Lin, addressed concerns regarding the high radiation levels in electric vehicles through a post on her social media platform. She clarified that the claims about electric vehicles emitting high levels of radiation and being harmful to health are entirely a misunderstanding. Using the Tesla Model 3 as an example, Tao Lin explained that the magnetic field intensity near the driver's and passenger's heads is between 0.08 and 1.30 microteslas (μT), which is significantly lower than the magnetic field intensity of an electric blanket when it is close to the body. This comparison underscores the safety of Tesla's electric vehicles, as the magnetic field intensity in the Model 3 is only 0.8% to 2.6% of that produced by an electric blanket.

Tao Lin further emphasized that Tesla's electromagnetic radiation levels are well below the standards set by both national and international health organizations. In tests conducted by the China Automotive Technology and Research Center, the Model 3 and Model Y received scores of 100 and 98.6 out of 100, respectively, indicating their superior performance in terms of electromagnetic radiation safety. These scores are notably higher than those of other electric and gasoline-powered vehicles tested in the same batch, reinforcing the reliability and safety of Tesla's electric vehicles.

Tao Lin highlighted that Tesla employs a centralized electronic and electrical architecture, which reduces the number of wiring harnesses and includes shielded cables. These measures are designed to block 99.9% of electromagnetic field energy, further ensuring the safety of the vehicles. This approach not only enhances the safety of Tesla's electric vehicles but also contributes to their overall performance and efficiency.

The clarification provided by Tao Lin aims to alleviate any concerns that consumers may have regarding the safety of electric vehicles. By addressing the misconceptions head-on and providing concrete evidence, Tao Lin has helped to build trust and confidence in Tesla's products. This proactive approach not only benefits Tesla's reputation but also contributes to the broader acceptance of electric vehicles as a safe and sustainable mode of transportation.

Tao Lin's response comes in the wake of similar concerns that have circulated online, with some claiming that driving electric vehicles could lead to cancer due to high radiation levels. However, these claims have been debunked by health authorities, who have stated that while electric vehicles do emit some radiation, the levels are within safe limits. The national standard for magnetic field radiation is 100 μT, and for electric field radiation, it is 5000 V/m. Electric vehicles typically emit magnetic field radiation of 0.8-1.0 μT in the front seats and 0.3-0.5 μT in the rear seats, with electric field radiation being less than 5 V/m. These levels are far below the national standards, confirming that electric vehicles are safe in terms of electromagnetic radiation.

The primary sources of electromagnetic radiation in electric vehicles are the battery system, electric motor, and electronic control system. The battery system produces radiation during charging and discharging due to internal chemical reactions. The electric motor generates radiation from the magnetic field created by the flow of electric current, typically at lower frequencies. The electronic control system also produces radiation from the electromagnetic fields generated by its electronic components and circuits during operation. Despite these sources, the overall radiation levels in electric vehicles remain within safe limits, as confirmed by various tests and standards.