Production Emissions: A Closer Look
While electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular due to their perceived environmental benefits compared to gasoline cars, the reality of their emissions is more complex. EVs are often criticized for producing more emissions during their production phase, particularly due to the process of manufacturing their batteries. According to the 2023 Polestar and Rivian Pathway Report, the production of an average electric vehicle generates about 14 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions, compared to 10 tons for gasoline vehicles. This indicates a 40% higher emission production during the manufacturing stage.
However, advancements in battery technology and a reduced dependence on rare earth elements could change this scenario. The Argonne National Laboratory’s GREET model states that EV production generates 80% more greenhouse gases compared to gasoline cars. This means that electric vehicles start with a higher “carbon debt” when they roll off the production line.
Advantages During Usage:
Fortunately, electric vehicles can offset this carbon debt fairly quickly. The time it takes for an EV to reach emission parity with a gasoline car varies depending on the source of energy used but is typically less than two years. For instance, even in NYLI, one of the dirtiest energy grids in the U.S., it takes only 1.9 years for EVs to reach emission parity. In CAMX, one of the cleanest grids, it takes just 1.4 years.
Many people are now charging their electric vehicles with completely clean energy using home solar panels and batteries, which allows them to compensate for the emissions difference even faster.
Environmental and Health Impacts:
The mining of rare earth elements used in electric vehicle production can cause health issues such as eye and skin irritation and is associated with human rights violations. However, new technologies are being developed that reduce dependency on rare earth elements in batteries. Battery recycling programs not only help reduce emissions related to electric vehicle production but also facilitate the reuse of rare earth elements, further reducing the environmental impact.
Despite the higher emissions from their production, over their lifetimes, electric vehicles compensate for this difference rapidly. On average, an electric vehicle used for 15 years produces about 30 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer, while gasoline vehicles produce 80 grams. It’s clear that EV emissions are significantly lower compared to gasoline cars and they are a better option for the environment. The criticisms regarding the environmental impacts of electric vehicles, when viewed in light of these facts, are largely based on misunderstandings.
