The study compared medium-sized electric, hybrid, and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, considering their production to disposal emissions in metric tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e). With a use phase of 16 years and a distance of 240,000 km, the results revealed the following:
In terms of total life cycle emissions, BEVs emerged as the most environmentally friendly option, generating 39 tCO2e. Hybrid electric vehicles followed closely with 47 tCO2e, while internal combustion engine vehicles had the highest emissions at 55 tCO2e.
Surprisingly, the production emissions for BEVs were approximately 40% higher than those for hybrid and ICE vehicles. This disparity can be attributed to the extraction, refining, and energy-intensive manufacturing processes associated with battery production, involving materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
The study also highlighted that electricity production is the most emission-intensive stage for BEVs. To significantly reduce their use phase emissions, it is crucial to decarbonize the electricity sector through the widespread implementation of renewable and nuclear energy sources.
It is important to note that all vehicle segments can offset a portion of their earlier life cycle emissions through recycling materials and components in their end-of-life stages.
While BEVs show promise in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, advancements in sustainable battery production and the adoption of clean energy sources are necessary to further mitigate their emissions. By enhancing the environmental footprint of BEVs, the transportation sector can make significant progress towards a carbon-neutral economy.
As the transportation sector remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, accounting for 37% of all CO2 emissions from end-use sectors in 2021, accelerating the transition to electric mobility is crucial. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the emissions associated with different vehicle types, highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve sustainability throughout the entire life cycle of electric vehicles.
Source: Elements by Visual Capitalist
