How much do electric cars actually affect the environment?

The environmental and energy cost of electric cars is a controversial topic that is frequently debated.

With such a mixed view on electric vehicles, it can be easy to not understand all the facts and go with what the mainstream media says. 

Some states, such as California, have promised to require electric vehicles by 2035, which brings up the question: Are electric cars worth the cost, and are they truly a more sustainable option?

The facts should do the talking on an issue as important as this topic. According to a study done by PragerU, when coming off the assembly line, electric cars are already responsible for over 25,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions compared with the average of 16,000 pounds from a traditional combustion engine. 

On top of this, over the lifetime of an electric vehicle, it only emits three to five less tons of carbon dioxide than a traditional engine, with 60% of an electric vehicle’s power coming from gasoline.

Now, other than its lifetime and making, the base of an electric vehicle’s battery comes from lithium, which is highly toxic to mine. According to a study by MIT Climate Portal, “The energy used by mining machinery creates climate pollution like carbon dioxide.”

On top of this, MIT Climate Portal notes that “a 2021 study found that lithium concentration and production from brine can create about 11 tons of carbon dioxide per ton of lithium, while mining lithium from spodumene ore releases about 37 tons of CO2 per ton of lithium produced.” 

As the facts point toward a reality that electric cars are currently saving little, if any, carbon emissions, what is the big deal with their promotion?

When it comes down to it, electric cars are a step towards a better future. By promoting them now in their beginning phases, it builds comfortability and reliance on their technology.

If you were to ask if they are the better option as of today, the answer would be much more complicated than a yes or no. While they may save some carbon emissions, are they saving that much for them to be a law in a state? 

Another important point to make is their range of distance, which has two sides to the story. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, electric vehicles cost around $6 to drive 200 miles on average, which is extremely cheap compared to traditional vehicles. However, most of these electric vehicles’ ranges are between 110 and 300 miles.

While it may be cheap, only going 300 miles at most before needing a charge costs more time and energy than refueling every 300-400 with a traditional vehicle. If driving electric, this creates the need for careful planning and provision, which many drivers struggle with.

On top of this, the MSRP for an electric vehicle starts at $28,000 — a steep price that many cannot afford, as compared to gas-powered vehicles.

On top of the purchase cost, Self notes, “The average annual cost to run an electric vehicle in the USA is $4,856, compared to $4,107 for a gas car, including insurance, taxes, gas, charging and maintenance.”

Currently, it is much more expensive to own and maintain an electric vehicle, which is something to factor in when debating if they are truly worth it.

However, there is a high level of potential in the future of electric vehicles. Finding ways to regulate the emissions while manufacturing and gathering materials for these vehicles is a great place to start. 

Bessire is the special assignments reporter for the Liberty Champion. Follow X