From lower running costs to being easier to drive, the benefits of EV ownership are many. But it’s their eco-credentials that really accentuate why electric cars are a smart way for individuals and businesses to help shift to a post-petrol future.

The need for sustainable driving alternatives has never been greater, so let’s reveal why EVs can help you make a positive environmental impact while you drive.

EVs help combat climate change

With zero tailpipe emissions, electric cars are a cleaner, greener method of transport, compared to their ICE counterparts that leave a more significant carbon footprint.

Although generating electricity to charge EVs creates a certain amount of carbon pollution, one Australian study found that electric vehicles emit, on average, 29-41% fewer emissions than a regular fossil-fuelled car for every kilometre driven.

Furthermore, researchers from the universities of Cambridge, Exeter and Nijmegen in The Netherlands found that in 95% of the world, driving an electric car is better for the environment than driving a fuel-powered car.

EVs are manufactured with eco-friendly materials

It’s not just what comes out of EVs that makes them better for the environment, it’s what goes into them too. From recycled materials to ‘vegan-friendly’ imitation leather, manufacturers are consciously working to improve their environmental and social impact.

For instance, BMW’s i3 is mostly constructed from carbon fibre, rather than steel and is 95% recyclable. Its interior leather, Sensatec, is artificial. Meanwhile none of Tesla’s new models come with leather seating.

With new ultrasonic technology that can recycle lithium-ion batteries in development, this will significantly help reduce carbon emissions further in future.

EVs improve air quality for humans too

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates that about 3000 deaths are attributable to urban air pollution in Australia each year. What’s more, transport is Australia’s third largest source of greenhouse gas emissions (96MtCO2e per year, 17% of total emissions).

By eliminating all toxic carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide emissions, electric vehicles can help reduce levels of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and asthma.

Harmful emissions don’t just come from car tailpipes. Particle pollution comes from ICE cars’ disc braking and weaker tyres that are subjected to more pressure. EVs have a regenerative braking system and tyres specifically designed to be able to support the weight of their heavy batteries which reduces overall particle pollution.

Summary

  • Electric vehicles emit around 29-41% fewer emissions than a regular fossil-fuelled car for every kilometre driven.
  • In 95% of the world, driving an electric car is better for the environment than driving a fuel-powered car.
  • EVs are often made with recycled or recyclable materials and vegan-friendly artificial leathers.
  • Transport is Australia’s third largest source of greenhouse gas emissions.
  • EVs can reduce the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and asthma.

ActewAGL Retail is proud to have achieved carbon neutrality by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and purchasing eligible carbon offset units from various projects. Learn more about how you can choose the ActewAGL Carbon Neutral Gas option here.

If you are interested in further reducing your emissions, ActewAGL can help you make the switch to an electric vehicle with ease. Effortlessly find, finance, and charge your EV through the ActewAGL evHub. Find out more here.