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0The sprawling landscape of EVs include designs that stop one in their tracks to take notice. From sleek exteriors to suave interiors, one cannot look away from the best of the lineup. Visibly, legacy brands are also launching EV renditions that are showstoppers in themselves. Consumers across all ages are being turned onto EVs not only for their environmentally friendly features but also for their ‘cool’ factor.
But beyond the awe-inspiring designs, can EVs really save the planet? Is the green element a filter or is it reality? Are electric cars greener? Let’s find out.
Energy Efficiency for the Win
Many argue that until fossil fuels are replaced with renewable sources, EVs are a redundant addition to the fight against climate change. A rather good-looking one, but redundant all the same. This is untrue. In fact, EVs produce 50%-60% fewer lifecycle GHG emissions than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, even when charged from a fossil-fuel-heavy grid (IEA, 2023).[1] In India alone, transitioning to EVs could cut 1 gigaton of CO₂ emissions by 2030, aligning with the country’s net-zero goal by 2070.[2] Significantly, any transition to EVs has the potential to improve the planet’s environmental footprint. With their energy-efficient design, EVs have a consistent advantage over other vehicles. EVs are up to 85%-90% energy efficient, compared to 20%-30% efficiency for ICE vehicles[3]. For every unit of energy used, EVs travel 3-4 times farther than gasoline-powered vehicles.
Breathe Easier with EVs
Overall, transportation contributes to 14% of global GHG emissions and is a major source of air pollution.[4] These emissions are actively creating an unhealthy environment and contaminating the air we breathe. A shift to EVs could reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter, improving urban air quality. Around the world, air pollution is becoming an increasing concern that’s actively affecting civilians’ health. Capital cities like Delhi in India are experiencing the worst of the impact. This is where EVs can play a crucial role—contributing in a meaningful way that can actively improve air quality. In Delhi, replacing ICE vehicles with EVs could lower air pollution by 25%-30%, benefiting public health.[5] Other pollution such as noise can also experience relief with the rising use of EVs.
The Barrier to Overcome
Yes, while EVs have come a long way, there’s still quite a path to tread on its course to radical green change. EVs can reduce their environmental impact further by being charged using renewable energy. Globally, renewable energy use in EV charging could reduce emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil-fuel charging. This is a whopping number that can actively transform the future of the planet for the greater good. Moreover, a significant positive impact can be made by improving the energy mix used for charging. In countries with cleaner grids like Norway, EVs drastically reduce emissions. On the other hand, in India, where coal accounts for 57% of electricity generation, grid decarbonization is essential for maximizing EV benefits. EVs may shift pollution from tailpipes to power plants if grids are coal-heavy. However, the overall lifecycle emissions remain significantly lower for EVs. Ultimately, for a greater impact, transitioning to EVs must be accompanied by investments in renewable energy and sustainable battery disposal.
Good for the Planet and the Pocket
Over 10 years, an EV can save 20 metric tons of CO₂ emissions compared to a petrol car. This aligns with the consumer’s economic needs as well since EVs typically require 30%-50% less maintenance, reducing waste from spare parts like oil filters. Surveys show 72% of EV buyers cite environmental concerns as their top reason for purchase, while 45% also value their modern, tech-savvy appeal (McKinsey, 2023). So while the “cool factor” plays a role in adoption, the purchase decision is driven by sustainability goals.
In conclusion
EVs are a greener option compared to other alternatives. However, they can be bolstered when combined with cleaner energy sources and sustainable battery disposal techniques. In countries with renewable energy grids, the impact is already measurable. EVs are the future of mobility and with the right interventions, can truly transform the way the world is connected to each other.
[1] https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/electric-vehicle-myths
[2] https://www.theclimategroup.org/our-work/news/net-zero-2070-e-mobility-transition-pathway-india
