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What to expect

One interesting aspect when first observing a battery electric vehicle (BEV) is the absence of an exhaust pipe. This is a clue as to their environmental benefits compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars: they do not emit CO2 or other noxious substances that pollute the atmosphere and impact public health.

However, ‘tailpipe’ emissions are only part of the answer. Let's look at the key issues and discover why moving to electric vehicles will be a significant benefit to the environment, including how EVs in Australia emit considerably less greenhouse gases than ICE vehicles, even if charged on the current electricity grid.

The NRMA supports the reduction of Australia’s emissions through the electrification of our transport sector because EVs can limit ecological damage, reduce smog and improve public health. Emissions have risen sharply over the past three decades in the transport sector, making up about 20 per cent of total emissions, with light vehicles accounting for about half of that. As motorists, our choices play a key role in reducing these emissions. Since 2018, the proportion of Australians who would consider buying an EV as their next car has stayed at about 50 per cent, according to annual surveys commissioned by the Electric Vehicle Council and the NRMA. This is not surprising given how environmentally conscious Australians are in their daily lives. The 2021 Clean Energy Australia report, which provides a comprehensive overview of the Australian clean energy sector, notes that one in four households now have solar panels – the highest rate in the world.

Despite this, driving a BEV off the current grid is still much less polluting than driving an ICE vehicle. According to modelling by the NRMA and PwC Australia, an average new ICE vehicle emits around 185 gCO2/km compared to an average new BEV which emits around 98 gCO2/km if charged via the grid. As renewable energy represents an increasing proportion of the electricity mix and battery capacity improves, BEV emissions are estimated to fall to 58 gCO2/km. Plus, there remains the option of charging off-grid; when charged solely via renewable energy sources (e.g. solar), BEVs emit zero emissions.

Energy storage capacity potential

Looking to the future, as more EVs — like the recently reviewed 2021 Nissan Leaf e+ — become capable of bidirectional charging (vehicle to grid technology), the opportunity for EVs to become a dynamic, flexible new energy storage source will eventuate. In this instance, energy service providers could encourage EV owners to charge up from excess, intermittent sources like solar and wind, and then use the energy stored to power their houses when they need it or sell it back to the grid to support grid efficiency and reliability. Looking forward, electric vehicles can play a positive role in the energy sector and help to put downward pressure on vehicle running costs and electricity prices.

Other long term societal benefits

While electric cars are cleaner and more efficient, there are many other reasons for supporting their introduction, including reduced motoring costs for consumers, improved national health standards and bolstered fuel security.

Lower cost of motoring

The average cost today of running a car on liquid fuel is $14 per 100kms, while the average cost of running an Electric Vehicle is $4 per 100kms – Electric Vehicles also require less maintenance, equating to significant cost benefits.

Australian fuel security

Producing electricity for vehicle propulsion also has benefits and relies on Australian-made energy, lessening our reliance on importing liquid fuels from overseas markets. While this presents some potential challenges, it also presents some significant opportunities for industry and consumers.

Economic opportunities

In regard to industry and skills, the NRMA has called for Australia to develop programs to support EVs, their associated components and Australian jobs, including exploring opportunities that may exist with EV battery reuse, recycling and responsible end-of-life retirement practices.

BEVs are better for the environment than ICE vehicles

In conclusion, BEVs today are significantly better for the environment - even if solely charged via the current electricity grid. As we continue to improve vehicle technologies and transition towards more renewable energy sources, EVs will become greener. Plus, there are many other potential societal benefits to be realised. If you are interested in buying an EV, see our tool to determine which EV is best for you.