In recent years, concerns about climate change and the search for more sustainable transport solutions have placed electric vehicles (EVs) at the centre of the debate. Studies show that, over their lifetime, electric vehicles can emit up to three times less carbon dioxide (CO₂) than combustion engine vehicles, even in countries where electricity generation still relies on fossil fuels.
But is this reduction guaranteed in all scenarios?
To answer this question, it is essential to analyse not only the daily use of these vehicles but also factors such as battery production, the energy mix used for charging, and the vehicle’s full life cycle.
In this article, we explore how electric vehicles compare to traditional combustion cars, the factors that influence their total emissions, and the role of the energy transition in maximising their environmental benefits.
How do electric vehicles reduce CO₂ emissions?
Internal combustion engines, used in most traditional vehicles, rely on the burning of fossil fuels such as petrol or diesel to generate energy. This process occurs in the combustion chamber, where the fuel is mixed with air (oxygen) and ignited. The resulting chemical reaction releases energy that moves the pistons and, consequently, propels the vehicle.
The general formula for the complete combustion of a hydrocarbon, such as petrol (approximately C₈H₁₈), is:
C₈H₁₈ + 12.5O₂ → 8CO₂ + 9H₂O
In this process, the carbon in the fuel combines with oxygen to form carbon dioxide (CO₂), while the hydrogen reacts with oxygen to produce water vapour (H₂O). However, in real-world conditions, combustion is rarely complete, leading to the emission of other pollutants, such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and fine particulate matter.
Electric vehicles, on the other hand, completely eliminate the need for this chemical process. They use an electric motor powered by rechargeable batteries, converting electrical energy into motion efficiently—without burning fuel and, consequently, without direct CO₂ emissions or other pollutants.
For comparison, while a combustion engine car emits an average of 107 grams of CO₂ per kilometre, according to data from the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), an electric vehicle produces zero direct emissions. Moreover, by not generating pollutants such as NOx or fine particulates, electric vehicles contribute significantly to improved air quality in urban areas.
Do emissions depend on the energy mix?
Although electric vehicles do not produce CO₂ emissions during use, their total emissions can vary depending on the energy mix used to charge their batteries. A country’s energy mix determines the proportion of renewable sources, such as solar, wind, or hydroelectric power, and fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas, in electricity production.
According to a study by Transport & Environment, even in countries heavily reliant on coal for electricity generation, such as Poland, electric vehicles still emit at least 30% less CO₂ over their lifecycle compared to combustion engine vehicles. In countries like Sweden and France, where electricity is primarily generated from renewable or nuclear sources, this reduction can reach around 80%.
Source: Transport & Environment
This means that, despite variations in the energy mix, electric vehicles always offer an environmental advantage over combustion vehicles. Moreover, as more countries invest in renewable energy, the carbon footprint of electric vehicles will continue to decrease in the coming years, making them an increasingly sustainable mobility solution.
Production and lifecycle: Are electric vehicles truly more sustainable?
Beyond the emissions generated during daily use, it is essential to consider the environmental impact throughout the entire lifecycle of a vehicle—from production to end-of-life. This approach allows for a fairer comparison between electric and combustion engine vehicles.
One of the main arguments against electric vehicles is the environmental impact of battery production, which requires the extraction of materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel. This process consumes energy and can generate significant emissions, particularly in regions where electricity still comes largely from fossil fuels. However, these initial emissions are offset over time, thanks to the efficiency of electric motors and the absence of direct emissions during driving.
As discussed in the previous section, even when factoring in battery production, electric vehicles already stand out in terms of sustainability and will continue to reduce their environmental footprint as energy infrastructure evolves. Additionally, the automotive industry is investing in solutions to minimise the environmental impact of battery production.
For example, Groupe Renault has partnered with Veolia and Solvay to promote the circular economy for end-of-life electric vehicle batteries, contributing to the efficient recycling of these materials.
This progress, combined with the greater efficiency of electric motors and the continuous reduction of emissions in the energy sector, reinforces the trend toward an increasingly lower environmental impact. In the long run, this transition not only benefits the environment but also strengthens countries’ energy independence and reduces urban pollution, improving overall quality of life.
So, do electric vehicles really reduce emissions?
Based on the studies analysed, electric vehicles have already demonstrated a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions over their lifecycle. But what has been the real impact of electrification in the transport sector?
According to a study by the International Energy Agency (IEA), electric vehicles helped avoid approximately 80 million tonnes of CO₂ in 2022, thanks to their growing adoption worldwide. This reduction is equivalent to the annual emissions of entire countries, such as Greece or Austria.
Furthermore, the agency projects that by 2030, if sales continue to grow at the current pace, electric vehicles could prevent more than 700 million tonnes of CO₂ per year—a crucial contribution to global decarbonisation targets.
Meanwhile, a Transport & Environment study estimates that by 2030, electric vehicles will be, on average, over four times cleaner than combustion cars, considering the ongoing decarbonisation of Europe’s electricity grid.
These figures show that the electrification of the global fleet is not just a promise—it is already having a measurable impact on CO₂ reduction. The continued expansion of renewable energy, improvements in energy efficiency, and advancements in battery recycling will further enhance the environmental benefits of electric vehicles in the coming years.
Conclusion
Electric vehicles are undoubtedly one of the key solutions for reducing CO₂ emissions in the transport sector. Over their lifecycle, they emit significantly less CO₂ than combustion engine vehicles, even when factoring in battery production and the electricity source used for charging.
With the increasing adoption of renewable energy and advancements in battery recycling, the environmental footprint of electric vehicles will continue to decrease in the coming years. Additionally, improvements in infrastructure and motor efficiency further reinforce their essential role in the energy transition.
Although transport electrification alone will not solve all climate challenges, it represents a significant step forward in reducing emissions and improving air quality. With continued investment and well-implemented public policies, electric vehicles will remain a driving force for a more sustainable future.
