Many people have taken a sniff of that distinctive scent when getting into a brand-new car. It’s a smell that many associate with freshness, luxury, and even excitement. However, that pleasant “new car smell” could be seriously harmful to your health.
A new study published in PNAS Nexus reveals that the source of new car smell — volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — may pose significant health risks to both drivers and passengers. Researchers from the Beijing Institute of Technology and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health analyzed the VOC emissions inside a new car during the hot summer months. Their findings paint a concerning picture of in-cabin air quality and highlight the need for better monitoring and control of these dangerous and possibly cancer-causing chemicals.
VOCs are a group of chemicals that easily become vapors or gases at room temperature. In cars, they’re emitted from various materials like plastics, synthetic fibers, leather, and adhesives. While some VOCs are harmless, others can cause health issues ranging from headaches and eye irritation to more serious conditions like lung disease.
The study found that formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, was the most prevalent VOC in the new car’s cabin. Alarmingly, over one-third of the measurements exceeded China’s air quality standards for vehicle interiors. Other concerning chemicals detected included acetaldehyde and hexaldehyde, both of which were present at levels that could potentially impact health.
However, it’s not just about what’s in the air — it’s also about what influences these emissions. Contrary to popular belief, the study found that the temperature of the car’s interior surfaces, rather than the air temperature itself, was the most significant factor affecting VOC emissions. This finding is particularly relevant for new cars in hot summer weather, explaining why that new car smell can be especially strong on a sunny day.
To address the challenge of predicting and monitoring these emissions, the research team developed an innovative deep-learning model. This artificial intelligence-based approach, named LSTM-A-E, showed promising results in accurately forecasting VOC concentrations inside the vehicle. Such a tool could be invaluable for car manufacturers and health authorities in assessing and mitigating risks associated with in-cabin air pollution.
The implications of this study extend beyond just new cars. As we spend more time in our vehicles — an average of 5.5% of our lives — understanding and managing the air quality inside them becomes increasingly important. This research not only sheds light on a hidden health concern but also paves the way for smarter, healthier transportation solutions.
