With more than 780,000 pure-electric cars and more than 500,000 plug-in models on UK roads (calculated at the end of May 2023), it's clear that the electric revolution is gaining more and more traction. But determining the true environmental credentials of EVs is a complicated issue. So, just how green are they? We investigate.
There's little doubt that physically driving an electric car is more environmentally friendly - there are no tailpipe emissions, and therefore less pollution. In fact, according to EDF Energy, in over a year, just one electric car on the roads can save an average 1.5 million grams of CO2, which is the equivalent of four return flights from London to Barcelona.
The challenge comes from the production and fuelling of EVs. Making electric cars uses a lot of energy, and manufacturers are striving to find ways to reduce the emissions produced in factories. What's more, charging an electric car isn't always environmentally friendly, as it depends on the method of power generation (i.e. the electricity could come from burning fossil fuels). That said, wind farms, solar panels, biomass and hydro plants are gaining more popularity in producing energy, and are likely to be a major part of the UK's charging infrastructure in the future.
And what about hybrids? This very much depends on the type of hybrid (for example, plug-in hybrids have bigger batteries than mild hybrid vehicles), and how much of the journey is completed using pure electric mode. For example, a city-commuting hybrid is going to be 'greener' than a long-distance road-tripper, as this will use more petrol.
To summarise, then, there is still some way to go before electric cars completely cut down on emissions, due to the manufacturing process and energy production. However, they are still undoubtedly a greener option than their petrol and diesel counterparts.
By choosing to go electric now, you'll be a part of the next generation of driving, and will be perfectly positioned as new models appear and charging technology evolves!
Join The Electric Revolution With Hendy
For more tips and helpful guides about electric/hybrid driving, check out our News page. From the types of vehicles available to information about charging, our series of articles will give you complete confidence when making the switch!
And click here to view the latest electric and hybrid models available at Hendy!
