In Canada, 24 percent of the total carbon emissions are from transportation. If we want to stop or delay climate change, we need to lower that number. But how? Electric cars may be the answer. Electric cars are the best choice for most people here in British Columbia. They are better for the environment, better for our health, and are cheaper in the long run.
In British Columbia, approximately 95% of electricity is generated from renewable sources. Because of this, in BC, electric cars are running cleanly and without releasing carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Those opposed to electric vehicles (EVs) say that manufacturing the battery produces more CO2 than manufacturing and driving a gasoline-powered car. However, even though electric cars do produce more carbon emissions to build than normal gasoline-powered cars, driving a comparable gas vehicle for 2.4 years generates the same amount of CO2 as manufacturing the largest EV battery. Most people have a new car for approximately six years, so all the driving after the 2.4 year mark, in a place powered by renewable energy, is not producing any CO2. Therefore electric cars are superior to gasoline vehicles in regards to the environment.
Secondly, it’s cheaper to run EVs because gasoline is more expensive than electricity. Furthermore, the price of electricity is much more stable compared to ever-changing gas prices. Though EVs do tend to cost more upfront, in the end, EVs are the same price or even cheaper than gasoline cars. However, some people struggle with large down payments. The Canadian federal government offers a $5000 incentive, and in some provinces, like BC, the provincial government offers another incentive, making the cars much more affordable. Also, an EV saves about $2080 per year on fuel. If a new gas car is $28000 and a new EV is $40000, after the government incentive, it would take 5.8 years of fuel saving to make up the difference. And this isn’t including another important thing to think about: maintenance. EVs don’t need as much servicing, such as oil changes or brake pad replacements. This is important because not needing servicing often means both money and time are saved. But after all, if the price is still an issue, a lightly used EV is always a great option that can help reduce the up front cost.
Finally, electric cars are safer and healthier. Because EVs have no tailpipe emissions, the overall air quality improves. This is vitally important for people with respiratory issues who are struggling with constantly breathing unclean air. Cleaner air is also better for overall public health. Also, when driving EVs, people may drive safer. Some people want to get the most they can out of their range so they drive slower, smoother and overall more carefully. This reduces the danger of potentially fatal car crashes. But in the event a crash does occur, EVs are much less likely to catch fire, making them safer in an emergency.
Here in BC, electric cars are the best for most people. They are safer, cost less overall and are better for our beautiful planet. By buying an electric car instead of a gas car, you are helping the environment, yourself and the people around you. If we work together, we can reduce Canada’s emissions and help save the planet.
Sources:
- National Energy Board. “Canada’s Renewable Power Landscape 2016 – Energy Market Analysis.” NEB – Canada’s Renewable Power Landscape 2016 – Energy Market Analysis – British Columbia, 28 Aug. 2019, www.cer-rec.gc.ca/nrg/sttstc/lctrct/rprt/2016cndrnwblpwr/prvnc/bc-eng.html.
- OFFICE of ENERGY EFFICIENCY & RENEWABLE ENERGY. “Electric Vehicle Benefits.” Energy.gov, www.energy.gov/eere/electricvehicles/electric-vehicle-benefits.
- Dyer, Ezra. “That Tesla Battery Emissions Study Making the Rounds? It’s Bunk.” Popular Mechanics, Popular Mechanics, 15 Feb. 2018, www.popularmechanics.com/cars/hybrid-electric/news/a27039/tesla-battery-emissions-study-fake-news/.
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