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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1995 SC Sometimes a car is forever tainted because of some girl you knew of that drove one lol.
Doc423 We don't need Detroit Losers in Alabama....we've seen what they did there....Stay the Hell Out, UAW !!!
CoastieLenn Having formerly worked for Coca Cola (and subsequently having to be part of the union), I'm of the opinion that Unions haven't actually served a viable purpose on the US landscape since about 1971 when OSHA was created. At that point, their main "reason for existence" became threatened so they had to create a new reason to exist- workforce protection. With the passage of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act in 1938 which created the Wage and Hour Commission under the Department of Labor, unions took a huge punch to the guts. Ironically, the FLSA was enacted 3 years after the UAW was formed!Now, all the really serve to do is ensure that ole Bill on that forklift that makes 4x the hourly wage of the younger guys but is 33% as productive can almost never lose his job or seniority based off performance. Bill should have retired 7 years ago, but he's gonna milk the cow for all its worth, and the Union knows it and the company can do nothing about it. /rant
Sobhuza Trooper No downside to the all-weather tires was mentioned.If they're perfect, then just say so.
Aja8888 The Tesla service center near me has 12 bays (full all the time) and parking for at least as many cars waiting for service or parts. No oil changes allowed though! Oh, they don't offer a loner vehicle like Lexus does.