Do BEVs Surpass Petrol Cars in Lifecycle Emissions?
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Synopsis
Discover how Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) surpass petrol cars in lifecycle emissions, even amidst India's current energy mix. A groundbreaking report reveals key insights into emissions reductions and the future of transportation sustainability.
Key Takeaways
- BEVs excel in lifecycle emissions compared to ICEVs.
- Operational emissions for BEVs are significantly lower.
- Transitioning to renewables can enhance BEV benefits.
- Advanced recycling can recover vital materials and reduce emissions.
- Immediate action on transportation emissions is essential.
New Delhi, Dec 15 (NationPress) Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) excel in minimizing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional petrol-powered internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) throughout their entire lifecycle, a recent report disclosed on Monday.
The operational emissions for an ICEV stand at 53.84 tonnes of CO2e (Carbon Dioxide Equivalent), while a BEV generates only 33 tonnes based on India's current grid, which comprises 28 percent renewables, according to the findings from the Centre for Excellence in Energy and Telecommunications, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, and Immersive Technology and Entrepreneurship Labs.
Utilizing fully renewable electricity, the operational emissions for BEVs plummet to an almost insignificant 0.03 tonnes, as highlighted in the report.
Employing a dynamic lifecycle model over a typical lakh-kilometre lifespan, the study revealed that manufacturing emissions without renewables or recycling were 8.66 tonnes for ICEVs and 9.66 tonnes for BEVs.
However, with 100 percent renewable energy and recycling, these figures drastically decrease to 2.89 tonnes for ICEVs and 2.54 tonnes for BEVs, providing a distinct advantage for BEVs.
BEVs convert approximately 90 percent of electricity into traction energy, in contrast to less than 25 percent for petrol engines. This intrinsic efficiency advantage further diminishes overall energy demand and associated emissions.
The report anticipates that by 2040, advanced recycling could reclaim up to 95 percent of essential materials and reduce manufacturing emissions by 30-40 percent. Conversely, ICEVs are fundamentally limited by their carbon-heavy combustion process, with around 80 percent of their lifecycle emissions occurring during operation and minimal scope for efficiency enhancements.
“This study emerges at a critical juncture when India can no longer afford to procrastinate on addressing transportation emissions. BEVs are not merely marginally superior; they are unequivocally better than petrol vehicles in curbing greenhouse gas emissions, even with our existing electricity mix,” stated Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Chairman of Immersive Technology and Entrepreneurship Labs.
The report underscored the necessity for the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) to coincide with a shift to renewable electricity generation and comprehensive recycling of all vehicle subsystems, including the battery.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that the transition to electric vehicles is not merely an option but a necessity for sustainable development in India. The findings from the report highlight the environmental benefits of BEVs, urging immediate action for a greener future.
NationPress
15/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are BEVs?
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are vehicles powered entirely by electricity, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petrol-powered vehicles.
How do BEVs compare to ICEVs in emissions?
BEVs significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with operational emissions of only 33 tonnes of CO2e compared to 53.84 tonnes for Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs).
What role does recycling play in emissions reduction?
Advanced recycling can recover up to 95% of key materials, potentially cutting manufacturing emissions by 30-40%, thus enhancing the sustainability of BEVs.
Why is the transition to EVs urgent?
Immediate action is necessary to address transportation emissions and combat climate change, making the shift to electric vehicles critical.
What is the future outlook for BEVs?
The report suggests that with advancements in technology and recycling, BEVs will continue to lead in emissions reduction, making them a cornerstone of sustainable transportation.
