How do EVs compare to gas cars in emissions over time?

EVs produce about 30% more CO2 during manufacturing, but by the end of the second year of driving, an EV overtakes a gas-powered car in total CO2 savings, and the advantage continues to widen over time.

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EVs Overtake Gas Cars in Emissions Savings After 2 Years

Q: What is the projected impact of EV batteries on CO2 emissions?

Each additional kilowatt-hour of EV battery capacity is projected to eliminate roughly 485 pounds of CO2 by 2030 and about 280 pounds by 2050.

10 Nov

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Summary

EVs produce 30% more CO2 upfront but less over time
Each EV battery eliminates 280-485 lbs of CO2 by 2030-2050
Gas cars produce 2-3.5x more pollution-related damage than EVs

EVs Overtake Gas Cars in Emissions Savings After 2 Years

According to a recent study published in PLOS Climate, electric vehicles (EVs) are proving their worth when it comes to long-term emissions. While building an EV creates about 30% more CO2 upfront due to battery production, that gap closes quickly once the car is on the road. By the end of the second year of normal driving, an EV overtakes a gas-powered vehicle in total CO2 savings, and the advantage continues to widen over time.

The study, which examined how manufacturing, fuel production, and vehicle operation affect both climate and air quality, found that each additional kilowatt-hour of EV battery capacity is projected to eliminate roughly 485 pounds of CO2 by 2030 and about 280 pounds by 2050. This reflects the continued progress in electricity generation and efficiency gains across the EV industry. Over an estimated 18-year lifespan, gas-powered vehicles are found to produce two to three and a half times more pollution-related damage than electric ones.