Back To Basics – How Electric Vehicles Are Helping the Environment

Feb 20, 2025

Impact

We all know electric vehicles (EVs) don’t have tailpipe emissions—because there’s no tailpipe! But what about battery production? Some wonder if making EV batteries is worse for the environment than producing oil and gas. Let’s break it down.

Batteries

Yes, making batteries does produce emissions, but the good news is that the extra emissions are offset within two years of driving of driving compared to a gas car. Charging at home in Concord? You break even in just one year! After that, every mile you drive is a win for cleaner air and a healthier environment for you and your family.

Recycling

Like all cars, when they’ve run out of their useful life, they get scrapped. And batteries aren’t any different. Many are repurposed for home battery storage, or they are recycled into new batteries, helping ensure a sustainable future for the next generation.

Electricity Production

Some also ask about the electricity used to charge EVs. Even if the grid includes fossil fuels, EVs are still cleaner than gas cars over their lifetime. Electricity in municipal lighting plant (MLP) areas especially is often more environmentally friendly because these local utilities prioritize renewable energy sources and energy efficiency while keeping rates low. Meaning you get to drive cleaner for cheaper.

Have questions about EVs? Ask our free EV Specialists, we’re happy to help you make the switch!

Looking to see how many emissions you could save going EV? Try our Drive & Save Tool!