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A Long-Term Perspective on EVs and the Future of Green Mobility

Electric vehicles (EVs) have been a hot topic for years, and discussions only intensify with the ongoing energy crisis and green transition challenges. While EVs are often seen as a key step towards a sustainable future, a recent Mobire Group study shows that environmental concerns rank surprisingly low on many consumers’ priorities. Only 10% of respondents are willing to buy an EV, with younger generations and women showing slightly higher interest.

Are EVs Truly Green?

EV manufacturing does come with environmental costs, particularly in battery production, which relies on lithium and cobalt mining. Fortunately, significant advancements are being made to reduce rare metal usage and improve battery production methods. Over time, EVs offset these initial emissions through their zero tailpipe emissions, whereas fuel-powered cars emit pollutants with every kilometer driven. However, the reality is complex—EVs still rely on electricity often generated from non-renewable resources, and the climate benefit of EVs increases only as the electricity grid becomes greener.

we need more forests and trees

The Rising Affordability and Convenience of EVs

EV adoption is accelerating as battery technology improves, providing longer ranges and easing range anxiety. Public charging networks are expanding rapidly, while home charging remains a convenient, economical solution—especially as electricity, even at current rates, is often cheaper than fossil fuels. EVs are becoming more affordable, while traditional combustion vehicles, which have served us for over a century, are likely to become pricier as governments work to phase them out to combat climate change.

The Potential of Cleaner Production

EV production emissions vary greatly by region. In Norway and France, for instance, EVs benefit from clean energy sources like hydro and nuclear power, while Asian-manufactured EVs often see higher emissions due to energy production differences. Tesla’s Gigafactory, which runs on 100% renewable energy, represents a promising model for low-emission production. Battery recycling and new developments in clean energy manufacturing could further improve the environmental impact of EVs over their lifecycle.

Reducing Noise Pollution

In addition to potentially lowering emissions, EVs contribute to a quieter urban environment, reducing noise pollution—a lesser-discussed but significant health concern in large cities.

electric ride could be half the win

The Path Forward

The cleaner our electricity sources become, the greater the advantage EVs will hold over traditional vehicles, impacting both battery production and everyday charging. Transitioning from combustion engines to EVs could help mitigate climate change and bring us closer to the goals of the Paris Agreement, but this success depends on rapidly increasing green electricity generation. While EVs are not a perfect solution, they remain one of the most viable options for a more sustainable future in transportation.

This article was also published in Delfi Ärileht on 01.02.22.