Are Electric Vehicles Actually Cleaner Than Gasoline Cars When Using Fossil Fuels?
Breaking Down the Misconception
The notion that electricity is solely produced from fossil fuels is as outdated as the idea of the world being flat. Historically, hydroelectric power has been the backbone of North American electricity grids long before fossil fuels became the dominant energy source. Hydroelectric power from Niagara Falls, mass-produced for consumers since 1895, revolutionized the way electricity was generated and consumed. This era marks the beginning of hydroelectricity becoming synonymous with electricity itself.
Historical Context
Before the dawn of fossil fuel-based electricity, hydroelectricity was already a thriving industry. Smaller hydroelectric projects starting in 1881 laid the groundwork for larger-scale production. Niagara Falls, a prime example, demonstrated the viability of hydroelectricity. The first large-scale electricity grid, using alternating current, was established in North America, primarily powered by hydroelectricity. This success ensured that hydroelectricity would remain the 'gold standard' for large-scale power generation.
In Canada, the connection between electricity and hydroelectric power is so strong that all provincial power utilities are named 'Hydro,' a testament to the enduring legacy of hydroelectricity. Companies like Ontario Hydro, Hydro Quebec, Manitoba Hydro, and British Columbia Hydro are just a few examples. Canadians even refer to their electricity bills as 'hydro bills,' highlighting the cultural significance of this energy source.
Consequently, stating that 'electricity comes from fossil fuels' is considered so absurd in Canada that it would be equivalent to public incontinence. This understanding is deeply ingrained and helps to dispel the myth that all electricity is derived from fossil fuels.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Comparison
The cost of manufacturing and operating vehicles directly influences their overall energy efficiency. Both the initial purchase price and operating expenses are crucial in determining which vehicle is cheaper to run over time. This comparison between battery electric vehicles (BEVs), gasoline internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEs), and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) highlights the nuances of each.
Initial Cost vs. Operating Expenses
A comprehensive study by the US Department of Transportation assesses the cost to operate vehicles over 178,000 miles. This method helps to level the playing field, considering the upfront purchase cost and ongoing operational expenses.
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
The Tesla Y EV, for instance, has a purchase cost of $44,630. With a charge costing 7 cents per mile, the total operating cost is 32 cents per mile. If offset with a 0.25 cent incentive per mile from a 36,000-watt rooftop solar system that operates for five years and charges 6,000 miles, the total cost drops to 30.35 cents per mile.
Gasoline Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Vehicles
The Ford Edge ICE has a purchase cost of 19 cents per mile and fuel costs 12.5 cents per mile, including regular oil changes. This totals to 31.5 cents per mile.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
The Ford Ranger hybrid truck incurs a purchase cost of 21.2 cents per mile with fuel costs of 8.5 cents per mile, including oil changes. This totals to 28.7 cents per mile. The hybrid Ford Edge has a higher purchase cost of 22.8 cents per mile, with fuel costs of 8.5 cents per mile. This totals to 31.3 cents per mile.
While the initial high purchase cost of a BEV can be a deterrent, the long-term savings on fuel make it a more economical choice. The lower operational costs of BEVs, especially when powered by renewable energy sources, represent a significant advantage in the ongoing comparison.
Conclusion
The misconception of fossil fuels being the only energy source for electricity is outdated. The history of hydroelectric power in North America and its enduring presence in Canadian culture underscore the importance of considering renewable energy sources when evaluating the true carbon footprint of electric vehicles. BEVs, when combined with renewable energy, offer a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles.