The Emissions Associated With Electric Vehicles

Everyone knows that electric cars are better for the environment due to their lack of emissions, but did you know that there are some hidden emissions with this type of vehicle? While undoubtedly much better for the environment than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs do have some harmful emissions to be aware of as a motorist.

Battery Production Leads to Emissions

Interestingly, these hidden emissions come from the manufacturing process and it is the batteries that are causing damage. This is because electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries and making these batteries is energy intensive. This includes the lithium mining process as well as the transportation and production of batteries in gigafactories.

In fact, electric car production leads to between 30% and 40% extra emissions compared to the production of ICE vehicles and this is largely from the product of lithium-ion batteries.

Electricity Sources

Following on from this, another way that EVs lead to emissions is through the source of their electricity. While the vehicle may produce 0 tailpipe emissions, you will find that the source of the electricity to power the vehicle will produce emissions (such as a power plant).

Are They Better for the Environment?

With these hidden emissions, it is understandable that motorists might wonder if switching is really worth it. Although there are emissions, the lifetime emissions from these vehicles are significantly lower than ICE vehicles and this means that they are a great way to reduce your environmental impact.

The Reality of Motorists Switching

Electric car sales have steadily been on the rise in recent years, but there is still a long way to go. The transition is one of the key steps for the UK to meet its net-zero target and the 2030 ban on the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles will accelerate the transition in the coming years. Despite this, many motorists are hesitant to make the switch and the cost of an electric car can be a factor despite the long-term savings that can be made. The cars are becoming more affordable, though, and will start to become more common in the used car market.

Due to their price, it is a good idea to take out gap insurance when you buy an electric car. Is gap insurance worth it is a common question that people ask, but when you consider the gap between an insurance payout (market value) and the amount originally paid, you will find that it is a sensible investment when purchasing an electric car.

Everyone knows that electric cars are better for the environment, but there are some hidden emissions to be aware of. Despite these, they are still a great way for a motorist to reduce their impact while also making long-term savings.