Toward Greener Mobility: Comparing Environmental Footprint of Electric and Conventional Vehicles

Abstract

This study applies a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) framework to compare the environmental footprint of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs) across production, use, and end-of-life phases. Results indicate that while BEVs generate higher emissions during manufacturing, particularly from battery production, their operational phase offers significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to ICEVs. The environmental advantage of BEVs is strongly influenced by the regional electricity mix; grids with higher shares of renewable energy amplify their benefits, whereas coal-dependent grids diminish them. Sensitivity analysis highlights the importance of vehicle lifetime, charging efficiency, and recycling strategies in shaping life-cycle outcomes. Overall, BEVs demonstrate a net advantage in most scenarios, though achieving true environmental sustainability requires parallel efforts in energy system decarbonization, battery recycling, and circular economy practices.