Inquiry into driverless car radiation risk

The UN has set up a task force to assess electromagnetic radiation levels in driverless cars
The UN has set up a task force to assess electromagnetic radiation levels in driverless cars
FABRIZIO BENSCH/REUTERS

An investigation has been launched into the health effects of driverless cars amid concerns that magnetic fields generated by the vehicles may pose risks to motorists.

The United Nations has set up a task force to assess electromagnetic radiation levels in the cars, which are packed with hi-tech equipment. Sources said that it could lead to new regulations to limit the strength of gadgets such as radar, lane sensors, sat-navs and entertainment systems.

The inquiry, involving officials from the Department for Transport, is also likely to cover currents from wholly electric cars, which are run on rechargeable batteries.

High exposure to electromagnetic fields has been linked to a range of health issues including an increased risk of cancer and memory problems. Researchers have found no