Road Test: Does the IQAir Atem Car Really Make a Difference?
By Ben Carter
Road Test: Does the IQAir Atem Car Really Make a Difference?
We spend hours in our cars, commuting through city smog and navigating dusty highways. But have you ever considered the quality of the air you're breathing inside that sealed cabin? Pollutants, allergens, and VOCs from traffic and your car's own interior can be significantly higher than outside. The IQAir Atem Car claims to be the solution. But does it work? We at Consumer's Best decided to put it through a rigorous real-world road test to find out.
The Proving Grounds: Our Test Conditions
To give this purifier a true challenge, we didn't just drive around the block. Our IQAir Atem Car road test involved a 90-minute commute through dense urban traffic, complete with idling buses and exhaust-heavy intersections. We then hit the open highway, purposefully tailing a large diesel truck to maximize exposure to fine particulate matter. Using a professional-grade air quality monitor, we tracked levels of PM2.5—the tiny, harmful particles that pose the biggest health risk—before, during, and after activating the device.
The Verdict: Real-Time Results
The results were impressive. Before turning on the Atem Car, our in-cabin PM2.5 levels spiked to unhealthy levels, particularly in heavy traffic. Within just ten minutes of activating the purifier on its highest setting, our monitor showed a staggering reduction of over 85% in particulate matter. The air was not just statistically cleaner; it felt noticeably fresher and less stuffy. The typical 'stale car' smell was gone, replaced by a neutral, clean scent. The device operated quietly, never becoming a distraction from driving or conversation.
Is the IQAir Atem Car Your Co-Pilot for Clean Air?
Based on our comprehensive road test, the IQAir Atem Car absolutely makes a tangible and measurable difference in your vehicle's air quality. It effectively transformed our car into a clean air bubble, even in the most polluted environments. For commuters, families with children, or anyone sensitive to allergens and pollution, it's a game-changing piece of technology. If you're ready to learn more about its long-term performance, filter costs, and how it stacks up against competitors, see our full, in-depth review on Consumer's Best for the complete breakdown and our final verdict.
