The inside of a car can become dangerously hot, reaching temperatures of 120°F (49°C) or higher within 60 minutes on a sunny day when the outside temperature is only 80°F (27°C). This rapid heat buildup poses serious risks like heatstroke, especially for children and pets. The temperature rise is primarily driven by solar radiation, which turns the car into a greenhouse, trapping heat. Factors such as the car's color, interior materials, and window tinting can influence the rate of increase.
According to studies from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the temperature inside a vehicle can spike quickly. For instance, on a 90°F (32°C) day, the interior can reach 109°F (43°C) in just 10 minutes. This is critical because prolonged exposure to temperatures above 104°F (40°C) can lead to heat-related illnesses. Automotive safety experts emphasize never leaving living beings in a parked car, even for short periods.
Here's a table with precise data from credible sources illustrating how interior temperatures change over time on a typical sunny day with an outside temperature of 85°F (29°C):
| Time Elapsed (minutes) | Interior Temperature (°F) | Interior Temperature (°C) |
|---|
| 0 | 85 | 29 |
| 10 | 105 | 41 |
| 20 | 115 | 46 |
| 30 | 125 | 52 |
| 60 | 135 | 57 |
| 90 | 145 | 63 |
To mitigate this, always park in shaded areas, use sunshades, and crack windows slightly—though these measures only slow the heating, not prevent it. Understanding this helps in making informed decisions about vehicle safety.
