EVs worse for the environment than diesel and petrol cars, claims study

Electric vehicles emit particulate pollution. (Photo: Mary and Angus Hogg via Wikimedia Commons)

As awareness of climate change continues to grow, so does the interest in environmentally friendly transportation alternatives. Electric vehicles (EVs) are often touted as a greener option compared to traditional petrol and diesel cars due to their lower greenhouse gas emissions.

However, a study by Emission Analytics, a firm specialising in emissions data analysis, may now be challenging this perception. Featured in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, the study sheds light on the issue of particle pollution originating from brakes and tires in both electric and gasoline-powered vehicles.

The key revelation of the study is that EVs, because of their heavier weight, may emit significantly more particulate matter from brakes and tires compared to modern gasoline-powered cars equipped with efficient exhaust filters. The study suggests this difference could be as much as 1,850 times greater.

The concern primarily stems from tire wear, with Emission Analytics highlighting that the heavier weight of EVs accelerates tire deterioration, releasing harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. This is exacerbated by the fact that most tires are made from synthetic rubber derived from crude oil.

Additionally, the study underscores the impact of battery weight. EVs typically have heavier batteries compared to traditional gasoline engines, putting more strain on brakes and tires. This, in turn, ends up accelerating wear and tear.

For instance, the report mentions the Tesla Model Y and Ford F-150 Lightning, both equipped with batteries weighing around 1,800 pounds. As per the study, tire wear emissions from an EV with a half-tonne (1,100 pounds) battery could exceed exhaust emissions from a modern gasoline car by over 400 times.

While attention has traditionally focused on tailpipe emissions, this study underscores the importance of considering particle pollution from brakes and tires when evaluating the overall environmental impact of EVs for the greater good of the planet.