When it comes to safe car travel in the era of climate change, there are a few factors to consider. Four-wheel drive is essential for handling intense rainfall, two-way charging helps in case of a blackout, and seatbelts are necessary due to the weight of electric vehicles (EVs). Additionally, drivers dealing with wildfire smoke have found a unique solution: using five small air filters attached to a box fan.

This makeshift device, known as a Corsi-Rosenthal box, can be plugged into a car’s cigarette lighter. It was developed by Richard Corsi, dean of the college of engineering at the University of California Davis, and Jim Rosenthal during the COVID-19 pandemic. They created it after realizing that school districts were not prioritizing air purification. Corsi is now frustrated by the auto industry’s lack of attention to the air quality inside vehicles.

Improving indoor air quality in cars is crucial, especially considering that the average person in the U.S. spends about five years of their life in a vehicle. Car interiors contain various chemicals that vent from plastics and flame retardants, and roads are filled with toxic emissions and particulate matter. On top of these challenges, wildfire smoke introduces harmful particles that are difficult to remove and can cause various health issues.

Auto Industry Response and Innovations

Tesla Inc. has been at the forefront of addressing air quality concerns in cars. The company’s Bioweapon Defense Mode, available since 2016, recirculates cabin air through a HEPA filtration system similar to household air-filter appliances. Other automakers are now following suit to meet consumer demand and improve air filtration.

Mercedes-Benz Group AG, for example, introduced an “energizing air control system” with three layers of filtration in its newest electric models. This system can capture viruses and eliminate smog using activated carbon. It also automatically seals the cabin when the outside air quality worsens. BMW has also developed a similar system focused on high-density filters.

While these advanced air filtration systems come at an additional cost, consumer demand for cleaner air may eventually make them a standard feature in cars. In the meantime, there are aftermarket filters available that can be easily installed in vehicles.

The Future of Clean Car Air

As awareness grows about the dangers of pollution, more consumers will prioritize car models that prioritize clean air. This trend mirrors the evolution of safety features like seatbelts, which were once considered a luxury but are now a standard requirement in vehicles. It is likely that clean air systems will become a common feature in cars, enhancing the overall driving experience and ensuring the well-being of passengers.

In the meantime, companies like Amazon are offering aftermarket air filters that can be easily installed in cars. These filters provide effective air purification and are a simple solution for improving indoor air quality during car travel.

Improving air quality in cars is essential and achievable. It is a necessary step in addressing the health risks associated with pollution and ensuring a safe and comfortable driving experience for everyone.