Before we dive deep into the more detailed myths, let’s start by addressing the common myth that EVs are not actually better for the environment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electric vehicles emit significantly less greenhouse gases than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, even when accounting for the emissions generated by electricity production.
There are still some misconceptions surrounding electric vehicles (EVs), including doubts about their environmental benefits. However, many of these doubts can be easily debunked. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has put together a list of common myths surrounding EVs, and we will explore some of them in this blog article.
Myth 1: EVs are not cleaner than gasoline-powered cars?
One of the most common myths about EVs is that they are not actually better for the environment than gas cars, also known as ICE (internal combustion engines). This myth is often based on the idea that EVs simply shift the emissions from the tailpipe to the power plant. However, even when taking into account emissions from power plants, EVs produce significantly fewer emissions than gasoline-powered cars. According to the EPA, “electricity production is responsible for a portion of the total emissions from well-to-wheel, but the full fuel cycle for electricity is still cleaner than gasoline.”
Myth 2: The production of EV batteries is more harmful?
We will spend some time on this myth as it is one that often comes up in diner conversations.
Another common myth is that the production of EV batteries is more harmful to the environment than the production of gasoline engines. Studies have shown that the production of EV batteries is actually less harmful to the environment than the production of gasoline engines. According to the report, previous studies had overestimated the environmental impact of battery production by as much as 60%. The Union of Concerned Scientists report used updated data on battery production processes and materials, and found that battery manufacturing accounted for a smaller proportion of total EV emissions than previously thought. They evaluated the environmental impact of electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) throughout their entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal.
However, the UCS report also noted that there are still environmental concerns associated with the production of EV batteries, including the extraction of raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which can have negative impacts on local ecosystems and communities. The report called for increased efforts to improve the sustainability of battery production and recycling, as well as the development of alternative battery chemistries that rely on more abundant and less harmful materials.
Myth 3: EVs are not cost-effective
Another myth is that EVs are not cost-effective. However, this is simply not true. While the upfront cost of an EV may be higher than that of a gasoline-powered car, the total cost of ownership over the life of the vehicle is often lower for EVs. EVs require less maintenance than gasoline-powered cars, and the cost of electricity is often lower than the cost of gasoline.
According to a 2021 study by Consumer Reports (independent organization that works for consumers) reported that cost of charging an EV is roughly equivalent to paying $1 per gallon of gasoline, on average. This means that EV owners can save money on fuel costs over the lifetime of the vehicle.
Maintenance savings: EVs also tend to have lower maintenance costs than gas cars, since they have fewer moving parts and don’t require oil changes. According to Consumer Reports, the average EV owner can save around $4,600 in maintenance costs over the lifetime of the vehicle compared to a gas car.
Myth 4: EVs are not practical for long-distance travel
Another common myth is that EVs are not practical for long-distance travel. While it is true that the range of EVs is often shorter than that of gasoline-powered cars, there are now many EVs on the market with ranges of over 200 miles or 460 kilometers. Additionally, the availability of EV charging stations is increasing, making it easier to take long-distance trips in an EV.
We have seen some of the more known mainstream myths surrounding the environmental benefits of EVs. However, these myths can be demystified with some facts. There are often two sides to a story or as we say two sides to coin. One thing is for sure, ss more people switch to EVs, we can expect to see significant improvements in air quality. At MaCharge, we are committed to promoting the adoption of electric vehicles and helping our clients make the switch to cleaner, more energy-efficient transportation.