A study published in the journal Science indicates that internal combustion engine vehicles should be scrapped as soon as possible to benefit the climate. The research suggests that phasing out these vehicles would prevent further greenhouse gas emissions and avoid increasing the supply on the used car market, which could lower acquisition costs and make the continued use of combustion engines more attractive.
The University of California, Santa Cruz, USA, conducted a study calculating when an internal combustion engine vehicle has a worse environmental balance over its entire life cycle compared to an electric car. Based on an average driving distance of 15,000 km typical for new cars, the study found that an electric car achieves a better overall environmental balance by the second year at the latest.
For drivers with high mileage, the study states that an electric car achieves a better overall environmental balance within the first year.
Changes in battery production and electricity
The research attributes the improved environmental balance of electric cars to lower CO2 emissions during production than previously assumed and an increase in electricity generation from renewable sources. Differences in environmental impact have shrunk due to incorrect previous assumptions regarding battery manufacturing and lifespan.
Current battery types use significantly fewer critical raw materials, such as cobalt, than previously used. Additionally, the CO2 balance of electric cars is improved because batteries can sometimes be used for stationary power storage after their use in a vehicle.
Recycling and future outlook
The study notes that the possibility of battery recycling has not yet been taken into account because there are no established procedures and no corresponding figures available. However, the reuse of the most important raw materials from accumulators is expected to further improve the environmental balance of electric cars.
Production of an electric car causes only slightly more than twice the greenhouse gas emissions of an internal combustion engine vehicle.
