Introduction
The debate on reducing and managing the changing climate conditions has impelled most car manufacturing companies to shift to the production of electric vehicles (EVs). The approach is geared towards reducing the emission of greenhouse gases into the environment and lowering the costs associated with operating vehicles. However, despite the significance of EVs, turning all cars to electric may pose a significant threat to consumers, such as replacing batteries and increasing the demand for charging facilities.
Challenges Presented by Electric Vehicles
Lack of Education
Most EV consumers are unaware of how to manage and dispose of the lithium-ion batteries used by EV technology. According to the survey by Ascend Elements, approximately 41% of Americans do not perceive transitioning to EV as the best solution for reducing environmental effects (Waste Staff). The argument is based mainly on the EV’s battery life, which is still not good enough, and most people are well-informed on how to dispose of them effectively. The finding further indicates that 59% of Americans do not use EVs because their batteries are more expensive (Waste Staff). Based on this perspective, turning all cars into EVs might hinder some individuals from owning personal vehicles.
Lack of Charging Facilities
Transitioning to EVs will require the country to have more charging facilities, which might shock the economy. According to Ponton (p.1), turning all cars to electric will be challenging in the short run. First, the author argues that the electricity consumption rate will triple if all vehicles are electrified. Fully charging an EV takes approximately one hour and some minutes compared to fueling, which requires only five minutes. This implies that to be able to serve all the EVs; it will be necessary to have a significant amount of charging infrastructure to accommodate the needs of the public. Following the cost associated with installing the charging stations and electricity required, making all cars electric will not be effective.
Harmful Environmental Impact
In addition, EVs use regular rubber tires, which are still detrimental to the environment. Vehicles produce tiny particles from wearing tires, which are extremely dangerous compared to exhaust fumes (Gill). Since the EV cannot address the challenge, turning all vehicles into EVs will still not reduce the negative impact. This aspect leaves the EVs ineffective, making them no more special than ordinary petrol cars.
Furthermore, the production of EV batteries and other parts requires mining. During the extraction of the intended minerals used in the production of batteries, the process emits a significant amount of waste into the atmosphere, which is detrimental to the environment (Krishna 3). The inability to recycle EV batteries further raises concerns for the people.
Usually, individuals believe that being able to recycle some components reduces the adverse effects on the ecosystem. However, if the process is impossible, it implies that the manufacturers must produce as many parts as possible to cater to consumer needs. This signifies intense mining practices to acquire more lithium, polluting the environment.
Benefits of Electric Vehicles
Despite the negative impacts of transitioning to EV, the technology has positive outcomes. According to an article by Ingram, “Yes to Electric,” the EV is cleaner and more efficient than traditional petrol cars. Even though EVs require significant energy to produce, their daily usage counters the effect as they are more environmentally friendly. Other advantages associated with EVs include precise throttle response, better torque vectoring, and issues associated with gear selection. In addition, the maintenance cost for EVs is lower compared to combustion-engine vehicles. Therefore, acquiring EVs will give consumers a thrilling experience and improved performance.
Lastly, the need to control and reduce greenhouse gases prompts the ban on gas-powered cars. The US is focused on promoting vehicles that do not emit carbon into the atmosphere. However, the move by the US has faced significant criticism since most people perceive the decision as biased. The country has allowed the sale of used gas-powered vehicles to maintain its legacy but maintains the need to ban new ones from being produced. The approach aims to curb the soaring fuel prices and support the Washington State Climate Commitment Act (Dennis). The argument depicts how significant EVs are to the country and how their usage has potential benefits to the public.
Conclusion
In summary, making all vehicles electric is not the solution to a clean environment. Since the technology is new, most consumers are unaware of how to dispose of EV batteries, which endangers the ecosystem. In addition, suppliers must engage in mining practices that emit significant environmental pollutants to manufacture lithium-ion batteries. Furthermore, there must be sufficient charging stations to support the public for the practical use of EVs. The mentioned factors provide the reason why all vehicles should not be electrified. However, some positive impacts are associated with EVs, including promoting a clean environment and impressive performance. Still, the mentioned facets are insufficient to support the need to make all cars electric.
Works Cited
Dennis, Ellen. “U.S. House Passes Bill in Bid to Stop States from Banning Gas-Powered Cars.” EBSCO Host. 2023. Web.
Gill, Oliver. “Electric Vehicles Should Face ‘Tyre Tax’, Says Air Quality Adviser.” EBSCO Host, 2022. Web.
Ingram, Antony. “Yes to Electric.” EBSCO Host, 2019. Web.
Krishna, G. “Understanding and Identifying Barriers to Electric Vehicle Adoption through Thematic Analysis.” Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives, vol. 10, 2021, pp. 1-9. Web.
Ponton, Jack. “Electric Cars Would Be Too Big a Shock to the Economy.” The Times (UK). 2017, p. 1. EBSCO Host. Web.
Waste Staff. “Nearly Half of U.S. Consumers Unaware About EV Battery Recyclability.” 2023. Web.