The debate still rages about the benefits and drawbacks inherent to both purely electric and hybrid vehicles. Each technology is certainly having an impact on the economy and our individual wallets. In addition to these concerns there is a relatively new dimension to the arguments to take into consideration. We are fully confident in making the claim that hybrid and electric vehicles have a positive effect on the environment, but the question now is whether or not the positive effects on our health are comparable.
A Hidden Danger?
Although the argument may seem secure, the situation is not as simple as it first may seem. Many individuals are concerned about the electromagnetic fields (EMF) generated by the electricity being used to power the cars. The health concerns related to EMFs are primarily associated with the risks for leukemia in unborn children. One concerned citizen reports having experienced abnormal sleeping patterns and a rise in blood pressure after driving a hybrid vehicle long distances for an extended period of time.
What Goes In Eventually Comes Out
There is no doubt that both types of vehicles produce less pollution, making the air we breathe when we walk down the street each and every day a little cleaner. The fossil fuels burned by conventional vehicles release CO2 and other harmful chemicals into the air that are proven to damage our lungs. The most common illnesses caused by these emissions include bronchitis, emphysema, and pneumonia, all of which can lead to death. Even the components of conventional cars and trucks end up polluting our environment when not properly disposed of. From Jeep Wrangler tires to Chevy car batteries, every bit of technology going into any vehicle ultimately has an impact. Hybrid vehicles still emit small amounts of harmful chemicals, however, electric vehicles release none at all.
Veracity Matters
The question then becomes whether or not these concerns have any valid scientific evidence to back them up. The studies say no. EMFs have never been linked to cancer in any known study. If they were proven to cause cancer or any other illness, then the specific EMFs produced by hybrid and electric vehicles would have to be linked to the illnesses in a completely different study. Experts will only claim that pregnant women may want to consult their doctor before driving an electric or hybrid vehicle on a regular basis.
The Game Remains the Same
The primary danger in driving a vehicle down the road, hybrid or otherwise, is still human error. Accidents will be the primary cause of automotive related deaths for many years to come. Although all the evidence may not yet be in on the full range of health effects related to hybrid and electric vehicles, the speculation is certainly not enough to deter anyone from making the switch to the more economical and greener forms of technology.