Have you gone electric?
Sep. 23/21
Change for Climate is a climate change initiative from the City of Edmonton.
Sep. 23/21
Change for Climate is a climate change initiative from the City of Edmonton.
National Drive Electric Week is taking place this year from September 25 to October 3. This is a celebration to raise awareness of the many benefits of electric vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, and more.
Have you gone electric or are you considering doing so? We would like to hear your story and feature it in our blog, so please send it our way. To inspire you, watch this Renewable Series video that shares the story of two members of the Electric Vehicle Association of Alberta who made the transition to electric vehicles and are pretty pleased with their choice.
So what’s so great about electric vehicles (EVs)?
First, EVs are better for the environment as they emit on average 41% less greenhouse gases than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in Alberta. This percentage is expected to increase up to 74% as our electric grid gets greener. Also, considering life-cycle emissions, battery EVs have been shown to offset their excess manufacturing emissions within the first 6-16 months of operation due to the absence of tailpipe emissions.
Second, replacing ICE vehicles with EVs improves air quality. In addition to greenhouse gas emissions, ICE vehicles which run on gasoline or diesel emit pollutants that have significant local air quality and health impacts. Since EVs do not have tailpipe emissions, their broad adoption will reduce air pollution and improve air quality for everybody.
Third, EVs have lower maintenance and operating costs. EVs cost less to maintain and operate due to fewer moving parts and lower fuel costs. The average annual savings on fuel and maintenance for an EV in Alberta compared to an ICE vehicle is about $3,000. Over time the reduced costs for maintenance and operation can offset the higher purchase price of EVs. The $5,000 incentive from the Federal government can also help.
Fourth, EVs use electricity which can be generated locally through solar, wind, hydro and geothermal systems. It is even possible to charge an EV at home with solar panels.
And last but for sure not least, EVs are fun to drive! Ask any EV owner about their experience and if you get a chance to test drive one go for it and let us know how it went.
But remember, walking, biking and taking public transit are still the best ways to move to reduce your impact on climate change.
Related: Check out this article, “Myth Busting: Electric Vehicles in Alberta”
Photo credit: Will York, Director with the Electric Vehicle Association of Alberta
