Electric vs. Gasoline Cars: Uncovering the Real Climate Savior

by TTAC Staff

Published: February 23rd, 2024

Photo credit: Nick Starichenko / Shutterstock.com

Contrary to common misconceptions, electric vehicles (EVs) generally have a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional gasoline cars. This advantage remains true even when considering the electricity utilized for charging EVs. One key distinction is that EVs produce no direct tailpipe emissions. However, the production of electricity for EV charging can result in carbon emissions, depending on the energy source.

The carbon pollution from electricity varies based on local energy production methods. For instance, electricity generated from coal or natural gas is associated with higher carbon emissions, while renewable sources like wind or solar energy contribute negligible carbon pollution. Despite the variance in electricity production methods, studies indicate that EVs are typically linked to lower greenhouse gas emissions than the average new gasoline vehicle.

The shift towards renewable energy sources further enhances the environmental benefits of EVs. As more renewable energy sources are integrated into the power grid, the overall greenhouse gas emissions associated with EVs can be further reduced. Notably, in 2020, renewable energy sources rose to become the second-most dominant source of electricity in the United States.

Tools to Measure Your EV's Environmental Impact

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) offer valuable resources for assessing the environmental impact of EVs. The EPA's Power Profiler is an interactive tool that provides information about the electricity production mix in different regions. By entering a zip code, users can understand the specific energy sources powering their local area.

Additionally, the Beyond Tailpipe Emissions Calculator, developed by the EPA and DOE, is a user-friendly tool designed to estimate the greenhouse gas emissions from charging and driving an EV or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). This tool allows users to select specific EV or PHEV models and input their zip code to compare the CO2 emissions from these vehicles with those from gasoline cars. These tools empower individuals to make informed decisions about the environmental impact of their transportation choices.

This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.

TTAC Staff

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Golden2husky I'd never recommend a modern Ford at this moment in time - not only the continual recalls, but there seems to be a lot of marginal parts and poor engineering ideas (an internal water pump, really?)...Almost overnight I am seeing Cybertrucks with increasing frequency. Teslas in general are thick on the ground around here but was surprised to see the trucks appear so quickly. They need better assembly quality and in the right light, some of the stainless panels seem to be a different hue from the neighboring panel.
Kosmo Millville MN (motocross track). Best in the land, and I could actually afford a vehicle that would do it justice!
Michael S6 Interesting how Toyota is filling every niche. My wife recently test drove a RX350h and this Crown Signia will probably save $5-10 thousand and offer a similar package. Toyota must be making a killing as our local Toyota dealers have hardly any stock.
Nrd515 GM: If you are going to revive the Camaro again, PLEASE do the following:[list=1][*]Make it actually good looking, and avoid the first gen "tribute" disaster of the last 14 years. You managed to take the pretty ugly 2010 to 2106 cars and then make them even uglier for the last years. And you wondered why it didn't sell? Look at the back of the car and you really think that's a good look?[/*][*]Make the car's trunk actually useful for more than golf clubs. [/*][*]Make it slightly larger inside, the last two gens have been almost like being in a small cave. The interior was hideous, too. Boring is fine, as long as it's in black.[/*][/list=1]I am a 2 time Camaro owner ('79 and '86), and a one time Trans Am ('79) owner. Instead of a Camaro, I have owned 2 Challengers.
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