EVs Vs. Combustion Cars: 6 Things You Should Know
As the world shifts towards carbon-free future millions are opting for electric vehicles (EVs). Transportation accounts for about a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions. Half stem from passenger cars. Switching to EVs is promoted as a key solution to combat climate change, but some argue that EVs also have environmental costs. Here’s a detailed comparison of EVs and combustion cars. This focuses on their environmental impact.
Combustion cars and EVs exhibit distinct carbon footprints. Across its lifetime combustion car emits 48 tonnes of CO2. This is 40% more than the emissions of an EV. This comparison is based on lifespan of 320,000 km (200000 miles). However, EVs display a higher CO2 footprint during their production. Specifically they emit 11 tonnes of CO2. This figure is more than double the emissions of combustion car at this stage
Driving an EV produces zero emissions. This allows it to offset its initial carbon debt. In Switzerland an EV can offset its carbon footprint after 20,000-30000 km. In Germany or an average European country, it takes about 60000-70,000 km or six to seven years. The timeline varies based on cleanliness of the electricity grid.
Traditional cars burn fossil fuels. This contributes significantly to their carbon footprint. it also causes pollution. EVs while not burning fossil fuels, depend on the power grid's carbon footprint for charging. If the grid relies on fossil fuels charging an EV causes indirect emissions.
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Sourcing materials for EV batteries like lithium and cobalt poses environmental challenges. Mining lithium requires large amounts of water. Cobalt mining is associated with habitat destruction. It also includes health risks. These risks include child labor. Despite these issues gasoline production demands more water over its lifetime.
EV batteries are highly recyclable. Large-scale recycling is expected to become widespread. Today's batteries will reach their end of life in about 15 to 20 years. Current regulations such as the EU’s mandate for material recovery and the US Inflation Reduction Act promote recycling efforts.
In certain scenarios keeping combustion car might be advantageous, particularly if the vehicle is rarely used. Infrequent driving does not compensate for the substantial energy needed to manufacture an EV battery. Therefore using public transport car sharing, or renting an electric car occasionally is often more sustainable.
By understanding these factors you can make decisions about switching to electric vehicles. Their environmental benefits compared to combustion cars are significant.
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