Despite previous concerns that electric vehicles may impact pacemakers, defibrillators or other implanted devices, new research shows there's no interference between the machines. A study from the Mayo Clinic concluded that people with cardiac devices can safely drive or ride an electric car without worrying about health problems occurring.
The Mayo Clinic looked at how patients with different types of implantable devices reacted when sitting in a Toyota Prius hybrid. Tests were conducted at a variety of speeds and with the passengers in a number of different spots in and around the automobile to see if there were any issues with the devices interacting.
Results found that, while there may be a small possibility of eventual problems, overall the interaction between an electric vehicle and an implanted health device are not strong enough to cause health issues. Further studies may be necessary, but in the meantime, drivers who want to cut down on their fuel expenses and vehicle maintenance can take advantage of the economic boost offered by electric cars.