The Fact
Throughout its lifetime, an EV has lower emissions than a gas-powered car – even when you account for manufacturing.
Where Did This Myth Come From?
This myth stems from the finding that manufacturing an EV can produce more carbon pollution than making a regular gasoline car. This is primarily because it takes more energy to manufacture an EV battery.
So, yes, battery manufacturing does have an impact on the environment, but let’s look at the big picture. When you consider the lifetime emissions of a gasoline car versus an EV, the total emissions (from manufacturing, charging, and driving) are lower for an EV. This is because EVs have zero tailpipe emissions.
The Data
The Argonne National Laboratory conducted a study comparing a gasoline car and an EV with a 300-mile range. Over each vehicle’s lifespan, the gas-powered car emitted about 375 grams of greenhouse gas per mile, while the EV emitted only 150 grams per mile. Check out the graph below to see for yourself:
Estimates shown2 from GREET 2 2021 are intended to be illustrative only. Estimates represent model year 2020. Emissions will vary based on assumptions about the specific vehicles being compared, EV battery size and chemistry, vehicle lifetimes, and the electricity grid used to recharge the EV, among other factors.
While EVs have higher emissions during manufacturing, gas cars emit significantly more greenhouse gases over their life cycle, especially during use due to tailpipe emissions.
While EVs have higher emissions during manufacturing, gas cars emit significantly more greenhouse gases over their life cycle, especially during use due to tailpipe emissions.
The Bottom Line:
Leading EV manufacturers are working fast to reduce the emissions associated with battery manufacturing and to decarbonize the process. This includes looking at renewable energy sources in production, reducing waste, and sourcing materials responsibly. Some companies are even investing in recycling technologies to extract materials from old batteries, reducing the need for new materials.
By embracing EVs, you’re not only reducing your carbon footprint but also supporting a forward-thinking industry committed to sustainable transport. So next time someone tells you that EVs are worse for the environment, you’ll have the facts to set the record straight.