You would be incorrect if you think EV creates more CO2 than ICE vehicles even if the power was generated with 100% fossil fuels.
There are two interesting things to consider when evaluating the efficiency of a vehicle: energy efficiency and emissions. An electric vehicle (EV) starts with a huge advantage over an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle: ICE vehicles generally run at about 20% efficiency, meaning that 80% of the energy content of their fuel is wasted, versus EVs which put about 80% of their input energy into turning the wheels.
EVs get their charge from an external power source, which could be from a clean, renewable energy source like wind or solar, but for most people will be our current electrical grid. As our grid gets cleaner so do EVs, but even when powered from today’s electric grid, EVs reduce both greenhouse gas emissions and the pollution that causes smog.
I do not believe this is true on a “net-emissions” basis.
That said, I am happy to learn more by reviewing any resources or studies indicating otherwise.
The merits of EVs aside, and there are some - no doubt, IMO, the commonly touted environmental benefits (conventional wisdom) is replete with misguided misunderstanding and the application of what I call, “selective science”.
I won’t elaborate or comment further, so as not to unnecessarily stir the pot or incite politically charged arguments.
I just would like to encourage everyone interested in the subject matter to dig deeper.
I nornamlly do my own battery change for cars. My Porsche 2019 Cayenne gave me a “low battery” signal a few days ago. I searched online and could not even find a place that sells the battery for it. The battery is located under the driver seat too.
Dealer charges over $2k for a battery replacement. It is the price of owning a Porsche I guess.
And making the battery.
And dealing with the toxic depleted battery waste.
And dealing with battery chemicals supply slave labor.
And.
And.
And.
As you said there’s no free ride when abusing the planet.
My concern as well, coupled with the environmental impact of battery production, manufacturing solar panels, etc. It is a mixed bag at best, as Toyota’s decision to stick with hybrids demonstrates.
Unfortunately in the States we are afraid of nuclear so this is essentially off of the table as an energy source.
I am in favor of exploring all avenues however, even those wrought with challenges. We learn in this way.
Being its inaugural year in the US may have had a bit to do with it being quirky as well. It’s been some time since I drove it, but as I recall it the user interface was a bit buggy, and the car seemed to lumber down the road. I had gone into the dealer specifically to test drive an SQ5 and compare it to the Q5. The sales manager was insistent that I drive the new to market 2020 etron SUV, so I obliged. I’m sure they have improved the vehicle since my experience. I was looking for nimble and settled with the SQ5, I wouldn’t describe it as nimble, but the Q& and SUV etron were too large and laborious for my style of driving, couldn’t feel the roar, and the body roll in corners was not to my liking. I can understand why others may prefer the etron SQ8 Prestige, being all electric, significantly more horsepower/torque and offering a larger format. No intention to offend anyone, but the mention of the Audi etron reminded me of my demo experience and the lasting impression that the vehicle was not for me. Vehicle preference as is many things in life is based on personal needs, values, and likes. Audi makes some great vehicles, discounting the diesel programing debacle, and certainly their all electric offerings will continue to improve as well as meeting market demands.
Changing the battery in a C7 Corvette is a serious bother, many owners will not tackle it or mess it up when they do, but no where near this scary expensive.
yeah but how expensive is it for a Chevy dealer to replace a C7 engine - seems more comparable to replacing an EV battery than replacing a corvette battery
For me, the fascinating cog in the EV technology chain is the battery chemistry. Lots of stuff going on there - none of which is ready for prime-time, but it’s getting closer than we think.
Re-build the grid with SMR’s (Small Modular Reactors), of which one design has already received govt approval, and some next-gen battery tech and I think everyone will be happy with the results.
You would be surprised at how well the S version 3 motor e-tron handles in the twisties over the standard version. I also test drove several other SQ series and thought this e-tron was the best choice for us.
