RF Exposure Assessment in ITS-5.9 GHz V2X Connectivity and Vehicle Wireless Technologies: A Numerical and Experimental Approach

Abstract

As Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication technologies gain prominence, ensuring human safety from radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) becomes paramount. This study critically examines human RF exposure in the context of ITS-5.9 GHz V2X connectivity, employing a combination of numerical dosimetry simulations and targeted experimental measurements. The focus extends across Road-Side Units (RSUs), On-Board Units (OBUs), and, notably, the advanced vehicular technologies within a Tesla Model S, which includes Bluetooth, Long Term Evolution (LTE) modules, and millimeter-wave (mmWave) radar systems. Key findings indicate that RF exposure levels for RSUs and OBUs, as well as from Tesla's integrated technologies, consistently remain below the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) exposure guidelines by a significant margin. Specifically, the maximum exposure level around RSUs was observed to be 10 times lower than ICNIRP reference level, and Tesla's mmWave radar exposure did not exceed 0.29 W/m2, well below the threshold of 10 W/m2 set for the general public. This comprehensive analysis not only corroborates the effectiveness of numerical dosimetry in accurately predicting RF exposure but also underscores the compliance of current V2X communication technologies with exposure guidelines, thereby facilitating the protective advancement of intelligent transportation systems against potential health risks.