What is the true cost of electric cars?

What is the true cost of electric cars? It seems that their environmentally-friendly credentials are less than impeccable when it comes to their manufacture. Bloomberg news looks in this video at how the Indonesian nickel industry has seemingly ignored environmental legislation to extract nickel.

Background Notes:

The environmental friendliness of electric vehicles (EVs) is a complex topic that involves various factors, including their production, use, and disposal. Here's a comprehensive look at the environmental impacts of EVs compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs):

1. Manufacturing Impact

• Battery Production: The production of EVs, especially their batteries, has significant environmental impacts. Manufacturing lithium-ion batteries requires mining and processing metals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which can lead to habitat destruction, water use, and pollution . Battery production can contribute to higher greenhouse gas emissions initially compared to ICEVs due to the energy-intensive processes involved .
• Resource Consumption: The extraction of rare metals used in batteries is resource-intensive and has social and environmental implications, including potential impacts on local communities and ecosystems .

2. Operational Impact

• Emissions During Use: EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, which means they don't directly emit pollutants like carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter that contribute to air pollution and climate change. This is a significant advantage, especially in urban areas with high vehicle density .
• Electricity Source: The environmental benefits of EVs largely depend on the electricity mix used to charge them. If the electricity comes from renewable sources like wind, solar, or hydro, the environmental impact is much lower. However, if the electricity is generated from coal or other fossil fuels, the benefits are reduced, though EVs typically still emit fewer pollutants than ICEVs over their lifecycle .

3. Lifecycle Analysis

• Lifecycle Emissions: Studies generally show that EVs have lower overall greenhouse gas emissions compared to ICEVs when considering the full lifecycle, including production, operation, and disposal. The savings are more significant if the EV is driven for a long time and if the grid gets cleaner over time .
• Battery Longevity and Recycling: EV batteries typically last for several years, and advances in battery technology are extending their life further. End-of-life recycling of EV batteries is crucial to minimize environmental impact. Proper recycling can recover valuable materials and reduce the need for new resource extraction .

4. Secondary Benefits and Challenges

• Reduced Local Air Pollution: EVs contribute to reduced local air pollution, improving air quality in cities and reducing health issues associated with vehicle emissions.
• Noise Pollution: EVs are generally quieter than ICEVs, leading to reduced noise pollution in urban areas.
• Infrastructure and Grid Impact: The widespread adoption of EVs requires significant investment in charging infrastructure and could place additional demand on electricity grids. However, with smart grid technology and renewable energy integration, these challenges can be managed effectively .

Conclusion

While electric vehicles are not without their environmental challenges, particularly concerning the production and disposal of batteries, they are generally considered more environmentally friendly than conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, especially over the long term. Their benefits are maximized when they are powered by renewable energy sources and when sustainable practices are employed throughout their lifecycle.

Investing in clean energy infrastructure, improving battery technology, and implementing effective recycling systems are crucial steps in ensuring that EVs deliver their full potential as a more sustainable transportation option.