Car features that help you breathe cleaner air

At first glance, it may seem that for many car owners, their rides are a protective bubble that shields them against the outside world. This, however, has several caveats - especially for individuals with asthma. 

We at Zigwheels Philippines are not doctors nor engineers, but it’s clear that outside air can still seep into your car’s cabin. In huge cities like Metro Manila, the air often carries pollutants, irritants, and exhaust fumes—things that may trigger painful asthma attacks.

For the said reason, many car manufacturers have developed in-car features and technologies designed to help reduce asthma triggers. But what exactly are these features, and how do they help ensure the air we breathe inside our cars is cleaner and safer?

As a post-celebration of sorts for World Asthma Day, which took place a few weeks ago on May 6, let’s explore some of these innovations.

PM 2.5 filters

One of the most common methods of filtering out asthma-triggering substances is through the use of particulate matter (PM) 2.5 filters. 

For the unaware, the term “particulate matter 2.5” refers to fine inhalable particles that are around 2.5 microns or smaller. Those are tiny and will probably get blown by the slightest gust of air into your car’s cabin. The aforementioned is especially true when getting in or out of one’s ride or even when momentarily opening the car’s windows.  

On that note, manufacturers have specced out their cars with PM 2.5 filters, which work by capturing small particles (dust, pollen, debris) from the air being circulated by the vehicle’s air-conditioning system. 

So, which car brands have PM 2.5 filters? As we’ve mentioned, a good number of manufacturers have already adopted this type of filter as standard, so it's easier to find ones that don’t have them. 

Do take note, however, that some brands have provided their standard PM 2.5 filters with their own versions with varied capabilities. 

Ford, for instance, introduced its miconAIR filter a few years ago. Volvo, meanwhile, also has the Advanced Air Cleaner, which combines a PM 2.5 filter with an active air purifier. 

Back in 2021, Honda Cars Philippines also introduced the PM 2.5+ cabin air filter.

The latest version of the BYD Atto 3, which Zigwheels Philippines recently tested, was also equipped with an active filtration system that alerts users whenever it detects high concentrations of PM 2.5 particles inside the car. 

Panasonic nanoe X

Another way car manufacturers have ensured good air quality inside their rides is through the use of the Panasonic nanoe X. 

Specifically, it can be found on nameplates manufactured by luxury brands such as Lexus and Jaguar Land Rover. The nanoe X, however, is likewise available as a portable system that can be placed inside the cabin of any vehicle. 

Per Panasonic, the nanoe X utilizes “hydroxyl radicals,” which are reactive molecules that are able to break down harmful pollutants and even bacteria. The said device can generate the said material by using high voltage to generate hydroxyl radicals in the moisture collected inside the vehicle’s cabin. The hydroxyl radicals are then recirculated inside the car as air. 

As the Japanese tech company claims, it is less harmful compared to traditional ozone-producing air ionizers because hydroxyl radicals are not respiratory irritants. 

HEPA filters

One of the more advanced methods of ensuring clean air inside a car is through the use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. 

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, HEPA filters are mechanical and can filter out particles as small as 0.3 microns (smaller compared to PM 2.5 filters). So, theoretically, this type of filter can stave away 99.97 percent of dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria. 

On the flip side, HEPA filters can be expensive to replace. As such, only a few car brands are offering this type of air filtration method as standard. 

One example is the Tesla Model Y. The locally available Model 3, however, still uses a non-HEPA filter.

Interestingly, the locally available Tesla Model Y also has the “Bioweapon Defense Mode,” which includes the HEPA filter in its system. The said mode’s other components include a method of creating positive pressure inside the car to ensure that contaminated air doesn’t enter the cabin. 

Activated carbon filters

A few vehicles, mostly from European brands, also utilize activated carbon filters to maintain the cabin air quality. 

One such car brand is Mercedes-Benz Trucks, which utilizes the said filter type on the current versions of the Unimog. 

According to the brand, activated carbon filters can filter particles and even harmful gases such as benzene. It can also neutralize odors, which Mercedes-Benz says is highly useful, especially in agricultural or industrial settings. 

BMW and BMW Motorrad also utilize activated charcoal filters to prevent vehicles from emitting gasoline odors. The aforementioned, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is a strong smell that can also function as a trigger for asthma attacks. 

Final thoughts

As we’ve mentioned before, Zigwheels Philippines writers are passionate car-loving journalists and not doctors. On that note, people with asthma who are concerned about possible triggers from inside their cars should consult their doctors if they have issues. 

Stay healthy, and safe everyone.

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