Are Electric Cars Really Better for the Environment?

When we are talking about why Mclean and Great Falls drivers should make the switch from their gas-powered cars to electric ones, the environmental benefits are never left out of the conversation. But just how true is that? Are electric cars really better for the environment? Overall, yes: electric cars offer many advantages that are worth mentioning—and despite some drawbacks, they produce far fewer harmful emissions than conventional cars. Find out more below before discovering Mercedes EQ.

What are the Environmental Benefits of Electric Cars?

Before we go any further, let’s review the known environmental benefits of electric cars:

• Lower Emissions: The Wall Street Journal estimated that over 200,000 miles on the road, an electric car will generate around 36 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, and a typical fuel-efficient SUV will generate 78 tons— or twice as much!
• Renewable Sources: Electric cars rely on renewable sources, so they have the potential to be even more environmentally friendly when they switch to cleaner sources. Gas-powered cars, on the other hand, will not.
• Reduced Upkeep: Electric cars have fewer moving parts, which results in a longer lifespan and fewer maintenance needs overall. This means less waste and consumed resources, like motor oil and gasoline.

Common Misconceptions about Electric Cars

Here are some concerns that Chantilly drivers have when they’re researching electric cars:

• What About the Batteries? Are electric cars better for the environment when you factor in the manufacturing of EV batteries? Absolutely! When you factor in the additional energy required to manufacture an EV’s battery, it still doesn’t come close to the total greenhouse gas emissions of a conventional vehicle.
• What About Power Plants? Generating electricity can create carbon pollution. This amount can vary widely, depending on whether natural gas or coal is used. Still, the overall low emissions and the potential for renewable energy still put EVs far ahead of gas-powered vehicles.
• What About Safety? No matter how the car is powered, every vehicle in the United States is subject to a long and arduous testing process to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. EV packs also receive their own testing standards, and they are designed to shut down the electrical system when they detect a collision or short circuit.

Find Out More with Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner

When you get behind the wheels of an electric vehicle, the difference you’re making is bigger than you might think. See if your next vehicle should be a hybrid or an all-electric vehicle, how long it takes to charge an EV, and if EVs need oil. Discover all about electric power with Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner before getting into one in Vienna!