Are Cabin Air Filters Different for EVs?

Most ICEs (internal combustion engine vehicles), or those powered by oil resources like gasoline or diesel need a cabin air filter to ensure the air inside their vehicles is clean and free from dirt, debris, or even viruses and bacteria. But do EVs (electric vehicles), as modern as they are, need cabin air filters? The most straightforward answer is yes, a big YES. 

My EV produces less emissions, so is a cabin air filter really necessary?

Although EVs are generally more eco-friendly and generate less carbon emissions than regular ICEs, it does not exempt its passengers from pollutants outside their vehicles as the air quality inside the EVs would still need a good filtration system. According to a study from the University of California, air pollution exists inside our car and can be far more dangerous than the pollution outside. In fact, in-cabin air pollution can be five times higher than outdoor pollution. That is why minimizing harmful particulates and industrial emission is crucial to keep you and your loved ones safe when you drive. 

So yes, a cabin air filter is a necessary part of EVs in the same way they are essential to ICEs. The function is still the same; these filters trap small to big particles and pollutants to keep them from entering your cabin, making the air you breathe inside your vehicle clean and safe. 

The great thing about EVs is that most models are able to detect the quality of air in the cabin so it’s easier for you to know if the air you and your loved ones are breathing is harmful or not. If it’s not, one way to know what is causing it is by checking if your car’s cabin air filter is dirty and  needs replacing. 

What types of cabin air filters do EVs use?

The type of cabin air filters used by EV manufacturers varies. Some EV manufacturers use standard cabin air filters while some luxury EVs come with high-efficiency particulate air or HEPA cabin air filters that can trap small ultrafine particles that some filters cannot. But which one is the best for your EV?

Choosing the right cabin air filter really depends on what your priority is. While HEPA filters provide the highest level of filtration, it can also affect airflow and restrict air from coming out of the vents. They also are more expensive but claim to last longer than other types of filters. 

Another option is a multi-layer cabin air filter like that of FreshenOpt’s. They can effectively filter out big and ultrafine particles such as pollen, diesel soot, particulate matter (PM2.5), pet dander, ozone, mold, bacteria, dust & allergens. They also come with an odor neutralizing layer to prevent musty odors and a tech-functional layer to prevent bacteria and mold growth in the filter and in the cabin. Most importantly, it does not restrict airflow that much. 

Where can I buy cabin air filters for my EV?

Of course, you can buy cabin air filters from your dealership if you want to. However, since EVs are becoming increasingly popular over the years, there are plenty of aftermarket and more affordable options out there that you can access either in-store or online.

If you’re looking for a high-quality cabin air filter that offers superior protection for your EV, please feel free to browse our cabin air filter collection which features filters for different models. We also have cabin air filters for Tesla X (2016-2023), Tesla Y (2020-2023), as well as Tesla 3 (2017-2023).