How important are electric vehicles in a sustainable future?
The global climate crisis repeatedly rears its head, reminding us all why it’s so important to start taking better care of our planet. Floods, heatwaves, drought and natural disasters happening all around the world can be linked to the impact of human-caused climate change.
The good news is that governments and organisations are waking up to the reality of it all. COP 26 resulted in the Net Zero Coalition, which has been one of the most significant agreements so far.
Governments around the world, including those of many of the largest polluting states, have agreed to work towards net-zero emissions by 2050. This includes a radical change in sectors such as finance, healthcare, energy, housing, and transport.
Why is transport such a key part of sustainability?
Transportation is a significant carbon emitter, accounting for around 20% of all global CO2 emissions. The biggest chunk of that originates from road travel, with passenger and freight vehicles making up almost 75% of those emissions.
From the figures alone, it is understandable why transport is such a hot topic and an area in need of revolution to help the fight against climate change. Fortunately, electric technology has already come a long way and will continue to transform the sector in the coming years and decades.
What are the environmental benefits of EVs?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more widespread around the world, which is great news for everyone. They aren’t a new concept (the first was built in the 19th century!), but electric and battery technology has been revisited in the last couple of decades which has been instrumental in creating a product that can truly become mainstream.
EVs can run solely on electricity, meaning less reliance on fossil fuels. This clean energy source allows drivers to utilise renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions and championing the uptake of renewable energy from sources like solar and wind. Models like the MG4 and Tesla Model S are becoming more popular with each passing year, and you can’t go far without spotting an EV on the road these days.
Fewer carbon-emitting vehicles should result in less air pollution and a smaller carbon footprint across society. The mass adoption of EVs will be a significant step towards a net-zero society and a more sustainable future.
What’s still needed for the long-term adoption of EVs?
There are metaphorical roadblocks that need overcoming before mass adoption can happen. Developing infrastructure will be key to ease driver concerns about charging points and EV range.
Cost is another factor. EV sale prices are still higher on average than petrol and diesel alternatives, meaning many people don’t have the financial resources to make the switch yet. Hopefully, the cost of manufacturing will decrease as output increases, and everyone will be able to upgrade or buy second-hand models once the used EV market develops.
