Electromagnetic exposure level of pure electric vehicle inverter to human body in different seating positions

Abstract The market share of pure electric vehicle (PEV) as a green transportation steadily increases as the global demand for renewable energy sources and environmentally friendly mobility continues to increase. However, during PEV operation, the inverter system, as the key power conversion device, generates strong electromagnetic field in the local space. Long-term exposure to such electromagnetic environments may have potential effects on human body. In this study, the electromagnetic environment model of the PEV body, human body and simplified inverter is established. The finite element software, COMSOL Multiphysics, is used to calculate and analyse the variations in the induction field in different tissues of the driver and rear passenger, caused by the electromagnetic field generated by the inverter system operating at maximum power. The electromagnetic exposure level of the driver and rear passenger is assessed. Results show significant differences in the electromagnetic exposure levels of different seating positions in the vehicles. The electromagnetic exposure level in the driver’s body is higher than that of the rear passenger, but it does not exceed the exposure limits defined by the International Commission for Non-ionizing Radiation Protection. This finding effectively complements the study on evaluating the safety of the electromagnetic environment of PEV and improves public awareness.