Electric vehicle (EV) technology is thought to be a radical solution to the environmental problems created by motor vehicles. Environmental pollution and sustainability issues, which have been frequently discussed in recent years, increase the interest in electric vehicles. It is an undeniable fact that millions of vehicles cause air and noise pollution by emitting carbon during the day. Gasoline and diesel fueled vehicles, which play the leading role in this, harm the environment due to the emission of exhaust gas every second.
While solutions are being produced against the global climate crisis all over the world, there are a few steps that people need to take in their daily lives. At this point, electric vehicle types are a strong option in terms of providing many benefits to both the environment, companies and individual users. Have you ever thought of switching to electric vehicles in order to protect energy resources and contribute to a more peaceful city life? So, let's examine together what exactly the effects of using electric vehicles are on the environment and sustainability!
1. Are Electric Vehicles Environmentally Friendly?
Since electric car models do not emit carbon emissions like gasoline and diesel fueled vehicles, they are a more environmentally friendly alternative to motor vehicles. Electric vehicles do not contain components that will harm the environment, such as fuel tanks and exhaust pipes. Therefore, electric vehicles that emit zero percent exhaust emissions are considered environmentally friendly thanks to these features.
2. Sustainability in Electric Vehicles
Due to climate change, many countries are investing in sustainable resources. Trying to reduce plastic consumption, increasing solar and wind powered devices, using bicycles for short distances, etc. measures are important in terms of sustainability studies. Electric vehicles are also a more sustainable option as they are charged with electricity instead of fuel oil. Moreover, it promises a cleaner and quieter future for the environment.
2.1. Comparison: Electric Vehicle vs Gasoline Vehicle
Electric vehicles, which run on batteries instead of fuel, are charged through a station or socket. After the car is connected to a charging point, it starts to charge with electricity. In this direction, EVs offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to gasoline vehicles without using autogas or fuel, thanks to their rechargeable batteries. Unlike gasoline vehicles, electric vehicles also cause minimal noise pollution because they work thanks to an electric motor.
Economic fluctuations around the world directly affect fuel prices. Fortunately, electric vehicles can save money on fuel. In addition, conventional vehicles need to be serviced at regular intervals. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, require less maintenance because there are fewer parts. Moreover, the exhaust system control is not found in these vehicles. Therefore, electric vehicles also provide great savings in maintenance items.
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2.2. Environmental Impacts of Electric Vehicle Production
Many positive developments can be counted among the environmental effects of electric vehicles . Significant reduction in carbon emissions and reduction in air pollution and noise pollution are among the leading ones. However, the individual use of electric vehicles is not enough. Especially replacing public transportation vehicles with electric cars makes significant contributions to the environment.
Electric vehicle batteries produced today have a much lower carbon footprint compared to previous years. Moreover, this rate is expected to decrease every year and become cleaner. It is clear that EVs are currently eco-friendly compared to conventional vehicles. However, thanks to technological developments, it will also be possible to create a much more environmentally friendly car by increasing the use of sustainable energies in EVs.
2.3. Environmental Impacts of Fuel (Electricity) Production for Electric Vehicles
The power needed to charge electric vehicles is generally derived from a mixture of fossil fuels and renewable power plants. Although this can not be shown among the advantages of electric vehicles , EVs are still on the greener side compared to conventional cars.
Electric vehicles used in countries producing electricity with solar and wind energy do not cause any harm to the environment in fuel production. However, in countries that continue to use fossil fuels such as coal for electricity generation, EVs cannot be considered environmentally friendly.
3. Are Hybrid Vehicles Sustainable for the Environment, Too?
Hybrid electric vehicles have both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine as in conventional vehicles. These engines can work alternately as well as simultaneously. In hybrid vehicles, more efficient use is ensured as it is automatically determined when the engine will be activated. Thus, in the first start and acceleration moments when the fuel consumption of the vehicles is maximum, the electric motor automatically activates and helps to reduce the fossil fuel consumption.
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It would not be wrong to say that hybrid electric vehicles are also a sustainable alternative for the environment compared to conventional cars. Although they do not have as environmentally friendly mechanisms as fully electric cars, hybrid vehicles of course offer an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional vehicles.