benefits of electric vehicles, Save environment
Skyrocketing fuel prices and the increasing need for greener initiatives have pushed many organizations to switch to electrical flights (EV) as a means of transportation. Electric vehicles contribute to the green economy by producing zero emissions. This makes their impact cleaner and more environmentally friendly than traditional fuel-based vehicles.
Besides, electric vehicles are fuel efficient. Hence, they can be a cost-effective way to minimize operating expenses.
Countries Across The World Adopting To Electric Vehicles
Many countries are increasingly switching to electric vehicles to achieve their climate goals. A total of 17 nations have declared their intentions to achieve their targets of 100% zero-emission vehicles or phase out internal combustion engine vehicles by 2050.
The world’s leading economies, namely the US and China, are engaged in a competitive race to establish dominance in the electric vehicle (EV) market.
Remarkably, China has made significant strides in advancing the industry, having sold over three million passenger EVs as of 2020—more than twice the quantity sold in the US. Additionally, China boasts an extensive presence in the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sector with over 400 registered brands and a fleet of over 500,000 electric buses, constituting a remarkable 98% of the global total.
However, the United States also exhibits promising prospects in this sector, witnessing a consistent annual growth rate of over 40% in electric car sales since 2016, with expectations of further increases in the future.
The UK has declared a prohibition on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars after 2030 as part of its efforts to achieve zero-emissions by the year 2050.
Similarly, Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam has declared the necessity of enhancing the adoption of electric vehicles as a crucial element of the city’s 2050 carbon neutrality initiative. Projections suggest that transitioning every vehicle to electric power could reduce Hong Kong’s overall carbon footprint from the current 7.4 million tons to 1.4 million tons.
Norway stands out as one of the leading nations in the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). In the year 2021, the European country witnessed a remarkable surge in sales, with electric vehicles constituting nearly 80% of all new car sales. Additionally, Norway aims to pioneer the global initiative of ceasing the sale of combustion engines by the year 2025.
Electric Vehicles – A General Take
Undoubtedly, switching to EV is considered a good strategy to put an end to global warming. If all cars on the planet became electric, we could indeed reduce nearly one-fifth of global emissions. However, the benefits of electric vehicles aren’t just limited to making air cleaner and breathable. With more and more EVs, we would depend less on spiked fuelled oil prices and have reduced noise pollution in urban areas.
5 Benefits of Electric Vehicle
EVs are a cleaner alternative and an essential step in sustainable transportation. Here we have shared five benefits of EV to the environment:
1. EVs contribute fewer emissions than ICE vehicles even if used along fossil fuels.
Several electric charging stations rely on renewable energy to recharge electric vehicles (EVs). Nevertheless, there are still instances where these stations are fueled by coal-burning power plants and other environmentally detrimental energy sources. In nations predominantly dependent on coal, oil, or natural gas for electricity generation, charging EVs can contribute to a more substantial carbon footprint.
Nevertheless, even in situations where electric vehicles (EVs) are powered by coal, they contribute to a reduced overall emission footprint. Countries heavily dependent on coal, such as China, have experienced a 20% decline in greenhouse gas emissions attributed to the adoption of electric cars. In nations with even lower reliance on fossil fuels, the utilization of clean energy sources enhances the environmental friendliness of EVs.
2. ICE vehicle pollute continuously
With the exception of the restricted utilization of coal-powered charging stations, electric vehicles (EVs) do not generate air pollution once they are in operation. The majority of emissions occur during the manufacturing of the battery. Consequently, the overall emissions of an EV can be quantified prior to its initial activation.
Electric vehicles, in contrast, emit CO2 only when their engines are in operation. Typically, a gasoline-fueled passenger vehicle releases approximately 5 to 6 metric tons of CO2 annually. Research conducted by the Union of Concerned Scientists revealed that the emissions from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles exceed those of electric vehicles (EVs) in terms of well-to-wheel emissions within a mere 6-18 months of usage. Given the widespread use of millions of ICE vehicles globally, substantial emissions persist. Conversely, an electric vehicle powered by renewable energy maintains a carbon-neutral footprint indefinitely.
3. EVs produce zero carbon emissions
Full electric vehicles do not need a tailpipe, as they don’t produce exhaust. Traditional engines combust gasoline or diesel, creating energy at the cost of producing harmful carbon emissions. By contrast, the batteries found in EVs are completely emission-free. The most common type of battery employed in EVs is the lithium-ion battery. These batteries can be depleted and charged repeatedly without contributing to air pollution.
4. EV manufacturers use eco-friendly materials
EV manufacturers face a challenge in creating lightweight vehicles for extended range and reduced carbon footprint. Traditional materials hinder this goal, but emerging recycled and organic materials now match their counterparts in weight, strength, and durability. While conventional manufacturers incorporate recycled materials in small components, the shift towards using them in the vehicle’s structure is underway among EV manufacturers. The advantages extend beyond weight reduction, as eco-friendly materials prove better for the environment, minimizing pollution and unsustainable resource use associated with new materials like metals and plastics. This marks a crucial step in creating more sustainable and efficient electric vehicles.
5. EV production can be clean
While electric vehicles (EVs) have minimal on-road air pollution, the manufacturing of EV batteries poses environmental concerns. The majority of EV emissions occur during battery production, with inconsistent industry standards leading to varying carbon footprints. However, positive changes are underway, as today’s EV batteries exhibit a 2 to 3 times lower carbon footprint than those produced just two years ago. EV manufacturers are now implementing guidelines for battery suppliers, insisting on the use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind during production. Tesla, a prominent EV automaker, aims to achieve 100% renewable energy in its battery manufacturing process, signaling a shift toward cleaner practices.
Takeaway
While it’s still a relatively new technology, electric vehicles will only continue to grow more sustainable and advanced. With air pollution becoming a serious concern, EVs offer both businesses and consumers a great alternative for a cleaner future.
aboutgreenify