Motion Sickness in Electric Vehicles Linked to Sensory Mismatch, Experts Say

Some electric vehicle (EV) passengers are experiencing increased motion sickness, a phenomenon attributed by experts to a mismatch in sensory cues, according to a BBC News report. While many EV drivers and passengers report no adverse effects, a notable number have described experiencing heightened nausea and discomfort when riding in electric cars.

Dr. Irene Di Giulio, a senior lecturer in anatomy and biomechanics at King's College London, suggests that research indicates some individuals experience more severe motion sickness in EVs compared to traditional vehicles. This observation is echoed by Dr. Nicholas Hac, a neurologist specializing in dizziness and vertigo at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, who states that approximately two patients per month report increased motion sickness specifically in electric vehicles.

However, the scientific community emphasizes that research in this area is still in its early stages. Dr. Bill Yates, who has studied motion sickness at the University of Pittsburgh, described the current body of research as "pretty sketchy," lacking extensive and definitive studies.

Potential Causes Explored

Motion sickness arises from conflicting sensory information received by the body. Experts identify several potential factors contributing to the increased incidence in EVs.

One theory suggests that the lack of engine noise and vibrations in EVs, which humans have come to associate with movement and acceleration, may trigger motion sickness. "Humans have adapted to associate sound with movement in vehicles," Di Giulio explained.

Regenerative braking, a system where releasing the accelerator causes the car to slow down and recharge the battery, is another significant factor. If not managed smoothly, this can lead to harsh deceleration. "It forces the person to perhaps feel like they're rocking back and forth for that brief moment when the speed of the car suddenly changes," Hac noted. Carolyn Le, a passenger from California, reported experiencing "horrendous" motion sickness in her friend's EV, attributing it to the feeling that the car is "constantly stopping all the time" due to regenerative braking.

EVs can also accelerate and decelerate more rapidly than conventional cars, which Di Giulio stated can contribute to motion sickness. Vicky Edmonds, CEO of EVA England, an association for electric vehicle drivers, suggests that driving style may play a larger role than the vehicle itself, noting that EV manufacturers are improving systems to moderate acceleration and deceleration.

Individual susceptibility also plays a role, with genetics being a primary influencer. Women and children are generally more prone to motion sickness, which typically peaks around ages eight to ten before decreasing with increased exposure.

Managing Motion Sickness in EVs

As EV adoption grows, with UK zero-emission vehicle registrations increasing by 40.5% in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, strategies to mitigate motion sickness are becoming more relevant. At the end of June 2026, 5.8% of all licensed cars in the UK were zero-emission vehicles.

Experts recommend several measures for passengers to reduce discomfort:

• Looking out the front window and avoiding screens or reading materials.
• Preferring the front passenger seat or the middle seat in the back to improve visibility.
• Keeping the head still, ideally against a headrest.
• Reclining the seat and regulating breathing.
• Opening a window for fresh air.
• Using travel sickness medication, though potential drowsiness should be considered.
• Ensuring adequate hydration, sleep, and consuming non-greasy food before journeys.

Prolonged exposure can also lead to desensitization, allowing the body to adjust over time.

Automakers are also exploring design improvements, such as software to smooth acceleration, sound systems and seat vibrations to signal movement, and adaptive regenerative braking. While these solutions are being developed, some passengers, like Lola Baird, continue to experience discomfort and hope for the eventual transition away from EVs.