Battery-Electric Vehicles Will Prevail Over Hybrids – CleanTechnica
Battery-Electric Vehicles Will Prevail Over Hybrids CleanTechnica
sdgtalks
US EPA Finalizes Rule for Multi-Pollutant Standards for Light- and Medium-Duty Vehicles
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently finalized the rule for multi-pollutant standards for light- and medium-duty vehicles in order to mitigate carbon emissions in the country. As part of this rule, US auto sales by 2032 will be required to consist of battery-electric vehicles. However, after lobbying efforts from automakers and unions, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) have been included as an acceptable option to meet the standards.
Are PHEVs Really “Compromise Cars”?
The International Council on Clean Cars and CleanTechnica disagree with the notion that PHEVs are compromise cars. PHEVs have gained attention due to their longer electric-gas range compared to battery-electric vehicles. They are also more affordable than full EVs, making them an appealing option for many drivers. However, real-world data shows that PHEVs consume more gasoline than advertised when the battery is drained.
PHEVs as Transitional Vehicles
PHEVs serve as transitional vehicles for both consumers and automakers. They provide drivers with exposure to electric powertrain technology and help them understand the benefits of electric personal transportation. For automakers, PHEVs allow them to navigate the transition to battery-electric manufacturing while finalizing their full electric portfolio.
Hybrids vs EVs: Safety and Maintenance
EVs have been found to be safer than hybrids, with a lower risk of catching fire. Additionally, EVs are simpler, quieter, and easier to maintain compared to hybrids. They have fewer moving parts and do not require oil changes, resulting in lower maintenance costs.
The Importance of Zero Emissions
PHEVs still rely on fossil fuels, making them less effective in reducing carbon emissions compared to battery-electric vehicles. The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emphasizes the need for zero emissions to combat climate change. The future of transportation should prioritize zero emissions vehicles powered by a greener electric grid.
EVs Are Simpler, Quieter, and More Powerful
EVs are simpler than hybrids, with fewer moving parts and a more straightforward mechanism. They are also quieter and emit very low sounds at low speeds. In terms of power, EVs have proven to be more powerful than hybrids. Additionally, EVs have become more affordable, making them a better choice for consumers.
Conclusion
The focus should shift towards battery-electric vehicles rather than plug-in hybrids. EVs offer numerous advantages over hybrids in terms of sustainability, safety, maintenance, and overall performance. To achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and combat climate change, the future of transportation should prioritize zero emissions vehicles powered by renewable energy sources.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
The article discusses the transition from traditional vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) and the impact of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) on carbon emissions and climate goals. This is directly related to SDG 7, which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. The article also mentions the role of automakers in transitioning to battery-electric vehicles, which connects to SDG 9 on promoting sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation. Additionally, the article highlights the environmental benefits of EVs and the need to reduce carbon emissions, aligning with SDG 11 on creating sustainable cities and communities and SDG 13 on taking urgent action to combat climate change. Finally, the mention of reducing emissions from fossil fuels and addressing climate pollution relates to SDG 15 on protecting and restoring terrestrial ecosystems.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- Target 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
- Target 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable.
- Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities.
- Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
- Target 15.2: Promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests.
The article indirectly addresses these targets by discussing the need for a transition to battery-electric vehicles, which rely on renewable energy sources and contribute to reducing carbon emissions. The mention of automakers retrofitting PHEVs into existing gas-powered cars also relates to upgrading infrastructure and making industries more sustainable. The focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting EVs aligns with integrating climate change measures into policies and planning. Finally, the emphasis on the environmental benefits of EVs connects to promoting sustainable forest management as a way to mitigate climate change.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Percentage of renewable energy in the global energy mix
- Number of infrastructure upgrades and retrofits for sustainability
- Per capita environmental impact of cities
- Inclusion of climate change measures in national policies and planning
- Extent of sustainable forest management
While the article does not explicitly mention these indicators, they can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. For example, tracking the percentage of renewable energy in the global energy mix can indicate progress towards Target 7.2. The number of infrastructure upgrades and retrofits can be measured to assess progress towards Target 9.4. Monitoring the per capita environmental impact of cities can help evaluate progress towards Target 11.6. The inclusion of climate change measures in policies and planning can be assessed through policy analysis and implementation reviews, addressing Target 13.2. Finally, the extent of sustainable forest management can be measured through forest inventories and monitoring systems, contributing to Target 15.2.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | Target 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. | Percentage of renewable energy in the global energy mix. |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | Target 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable. | Number of infrastructure upgrades and retrofits for sustainability. |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities. | Per capita environmental impact of cities. |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning. | Inclusion of climate change measures in national policies and planning. |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.2: Promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests. | Extent of sustainable forest management. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: cleantechnica.com
Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.
