When compared with any petrol, diesel, or plug-in (hybrid) vehicle, electric cars are proven to have a better impact on the environment. Their predecessors are known for their incredibly high emittance of greenhouse gases and air pollutants into the atmosphere.

The concerning rise in CO2 levels has contributed to the government placing a ban on the sale of new fuel vehicles from 2030 and setting the 2050 target to reach net-zero emissions to reverse the damage made to the climate.

Research has proven that just one electric vehicle can save 1.5 million grams of CO2 being released into the environment. Running solely on battery power, electric vehicles dramatically reduce air pollution in towns and cities.

What does EV driving mean for cities and towns?

Research shows that traditional vehicles currently make up for half of London’s air pollution. This has triggered the rollout of clean air zones in town and cities to reduce carbon emissions, as well as the ban on fuel vehicle sales. Electric vehicles also help to reduce noise pollution, particularly in low-speed cities.

Is EV Production more eco-friendly than fuel vehicles?

EV production is costly, but despite the amount of energy used to build the vehicle and battery, electric vehicles are still more environmentally friendly when accounting for the reduced emissions over the lifespan of the vehicle.

The emissions created during the production of electric and traditional vehicles aren’t too dissimilar as the same raw materials are transported and utilised by manufacturers to build each vehicle. The development of lithium-ion batteries currently accounts for the majority of air pollution created during the production of the entire vehicle; however, this is outweighed by the lack of CO2 emissions produced throughout the lifetime of the vehicle.

Manufacturers and researchers are also looking at ways to reuse and recycle old vehicle batteries turning them into electrical storage units.

Does the electricity needed to charge the battery create carbon emissions?

Carbon emissions are generated during the charging process of EV batteries, but research by the European Energy Agency has proven that the emissions are between 17-30% lower than fuel vehicles, making them much more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Is smart charging better for the environment?

Innovations in EV charging technology not only reduces the cost of utility bills, but they also support drivers in reducing their carbon footprint by allowing them to schedule their car charging during off-peak times when the demand on the national grid is at its lowest.

Round-up

There is still a fair way to go to reach net-zero by 2050, but innovations and investments into the EV infrastructure will continue to focus on reducing carbon emissions.

Although the emissions created during manufacturing are currently on par with fuel vehicles, the reduced carbon footprint created during the lifetime of the battery will have a dramatic effect on the CO2 levels when more drivers make the switch to electric vehicles.

If you’re considering reducing your carbon footprint and potentially saving money on fuel costs by switching to EV then contact us on 03333 444570 to discuss the charge point that’s best for you.