EVs vs Petrol/Diesel Cars: Comparing Greenness

author: FutureCar Staff    

Carmakers are investing billions of dollars in the development of new battery electric vehicles (BEVs) with the goal of having over 30 million of them on European roads by 2030. However, while electric cars produce no tailpipe emissions, their manufacturing process and the production of batteries still contribute to carbon emissions.

When considering the environmental impact of BEVs, it is important to account for their entire life cycle, including the production, use, and disposal of the vehicles. The production of lithium-ion batteries, for example, is an energy-intensive process that results in higher emissions compared to the manufacturing of internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.

Despite this, car manufacturers are making efforts to become carbon neutral. Companies like Volkswagen, Toyota, Hyundai Motor Group, Mercedes-Benz, and General Motors have set targets to achieve carbon neutrality in their products and operations within the next few decades.

Swedish company Polestar has set an ambitious goal to produce a net-zero car by 2030, aiming to eliminate all carbon emissions throughout the entire life cycle of their vehicles.

While there may be a significant carbon gap between BEVs and ICE cars at the time of sale, electric cars continue to emit no CO2 during their lifetime, while ICE cars still produce emissions. Research by Transport & Environment suggests that, on average, an electric car in the EU emits nearly three times less carbon than an equivalent petrol or diesel car.

As the electricity grid becomes greener, the benefits of BEVs will continue to increase. Even in countries like Poland, where the electricity grid relies heavily on fossil fuels, electric cars still emit 37% less CO2 than petrol cars.

The production of batteries is one of the factors contributing to the higher cost of BEVs compared to ICE cars. However, as battery technology improves, alternatives to standard lithium-ion batteries, such as sodium-ion batteries, are being explored.

Efforts are also being made to reduce the environmental impact of mining for battery raw materials. Reinvesting mining profits into local communities and supporting education and training can help create opportunities for people in developing countries.

Recycling or reusing batteries is another important step in reducing the life cycle emissions of electric cars. The European Commission has proposed regulations to ensure ethical mining practices and promote effective recycling of battery raw materials.

Overall, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the fact that BEVs produce fewer carbon emissions over their lifetime compared to ICE cars. Continued advancements in battery technology and manufacturing techniques will further improve the longevity of batteries and electric vehicles.

While there are challenges to overcome in the BEV life cycle, it is important to recognize that the environmental impact of oil extraction for fuel is much greater. The transition to electric vehicles is a crucial step in reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment.

FutureCar Staff