High Radiation Levels in Hybrid and Electric Cars in Israel Raise Health Concerns

Recent measurements and studies indicate that some hybrid and electric vehicles sold in Israel emit electromagnetic radiation levels exceeding the recommended daily exposure limit of 4 milligauss (mG), potentially posing health risks including increased cancer risk. These findings come from tests conducted by SafeFields, a company specializing in electromagnetic radiation in vehicles, and align with a 2022 German study following international standards. Experts warn that prolonged exposure inside these vehicles, especially given the long time Israelis spend commuting, may elevate health risks.

A meta-analysis led by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, published in the British Journal of Cancer, found that children exposed to magnetic fields above 4 mG had double the leukemia rates compared to those with lower exposure. The radiation emitted by electric and hybrid cars is similar to that from high-voltage power lines, with some models showing radiation levels of tens to hundreds of milligauss during acceleration or braking, far above Israel's chronic exposure limit.

Specific models with notably high radiation include the Tiggo8pro (Chery) at 249 mG, MG EHS at 124 mG, Hyundai Ioniq 4 at 112 mG, and Kia Niro models at around 71.5 mG. German tests also found elevated levels in Porsche Taycan (105 mG), Mercedes GLE 350 de PHEV (100 mG), Volkswagen ID.3 (90 mG), and Fiat 500e (80 mG). Israeli environmental officials emphasize the importance of transparency and consumer awareness, as regulatory frameworks for radiation in vehicles are still developing globally.

While the Ministry of Environmental Protection supports the transition to low-emission vehicles for their environmental and health benefits, it stresses that consumers bear responsibility for checking radiation levels due to variability among models. Industry representatives generally assert their vehicles meet strict European and Israeli standards, though some declined to provide detailed radiation data or commented that the 4 mG limit applies to chronic residential exposure, not limited vehicle use.

Experts call for increased transparency to encourage manufacturers to reduce radiation emissions and enable consumers to make informed choices. Given Israel's current road conditions and long travel times, the potential health risks from electromagnetic radiation in some electric and hybrid cars warrant attention and further regulation.