When is an Electric Car Considered Sustainable? We Unveil the Truth!

Environmental friendliness is becoming increasingly important to us, as noted by the Federal Environment Agency. A survey in Germany revealed that 57% consider climate and environmental protection to be important issues, with 91% supporting the eco-friendly transformation of the German economy. This mindset is also reflected in the adoption of electric cars (EVs). Currently, 32% of Germans have switched to EVs, and nearly 55% plan to do so with their next car purchase. With these prospects, the only question remaining is how eco-friendly electric cars really are. We've investigated this question.

(Federal Environment Agency, 2023)

‍

1. The Lifecycle of an Electric Car

To truly understand the environmental friendliness of an electric car, we must examine its lifecycle phases - from production to recycling.

‍

Manufacturing the Electric Car

One fact is clear: manufacturing an electric car is not an easy feat for the environment. It is estimated that producing an electric car generates 70% - 110% more CO2 emissions compared to a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. This is primarily due to the battery manufacturing process.

‍

Using the Electric Car

Once an electric car hits the road, it's all about electricity. Those who mainly use renewable energy or power from a photovoltaic system can already enter environmentally friendly territory. An electric car powered by green electricity can cause up to 60-80% fewer CO2 emissions than a comparable ICE vehicle.
‍

Additionally, electric cars are more efficient as electric motors have fewer energy losses. This leads to lower operating costs and reduced CO2 emissions per kilometer driven.

‍

Recycling an Electric Car

A crucial element of an electric car's lifecycle is recycling. This involves several steps:

‍

• Battery Recycling: The recyclability of batteries is essential for the environmental friendliness of EVs. Advances in lithium-ion battery recycling can reduce the need for newly mined raw materials and lessen environmental impact. Recycling can recover valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
  ‍
• Reuse: Besides recycling, there are strategies for reusing batteries. Used batteries can be repurposed in stationary energy storage systems, extending their lifespan and reducing overall impacts.
  ‍
• Disposal: Improper disposal of batteries can lead to significant environmental issues, making sustainable disposal and material recovery crucial.

‍

The Crucial Question: When is Sustainability Achieved?

The sustainability of an electric car is achieved when the emission savings during the usage phase exceed the emissions from the production phase. This usually occurs after about 2 to 3 years of intensive use or after a certain mileage, which can vary depending on the energy source and driving conditions. The more renewable energy used and the more efficient the recycling processes, the quicker this point is reached.

‍

2. What Can You Do to Reach Sustainability as Quickly as Possible?

The theory is clear - it's best to drive an electric car for as long as possible. To make this feasible, proper care of the car is essential. This includes not just its appearance but also battery maintenance, using regenerative braking, and other expert tips we've prepared for you.

‍

We’ve got a summary for you:

• Regular Charging: Keep the battery charge between 20% and 80% to maximize lifespan.
  ‍
• Avoid Fast Charging: Use fast charging only in emergencies, as it stresses the battery more.
  ‍
• Temperature Management: Avoid extreme temperatures to protect the battery.
  ‍
• Regular Maintenance: Have the vehicle serviced regularly to increase efficiency and lifespan.
  ‍
• Gentle Acceleration and Braking: Drive predictively and avoid hard acceleration and braking.
  ‍
• Use Regeneration: Use the regenerative function to recover energy during braking.
  ‍
• Software Updates: Keep the vehicle software up to date to benefit from improvements in battery management software.

‍

3. How Can Cardino Help with Sustainability?

The longer you drive an electric car, the better. How does Cardino fit into this?
‍

Cardino resells electric cars to dealers, finding drivers who are satisfied with used electric cars, thereby also promoting sustainability.
‍

The sales process is simple: with a few details and photos, you're set, and the sales process can begin stress-free.
‍

Within a few days, the sales process is completed, the car is picked up, and you have the money in your account! This saves you time, paperwork, and effort. Transparency is highly valued, so you don't have to worry about hidden costs. The full amount of the agreed price is yours without deductions. This secures your trust with Cardino.A convenient solution if you want to sell your electric or plug-in hybrid car.

‍

Conclusion

We've unveiled: electric cars are eco-friendly - at least when used properly. At Cardino, we do our best to achieve the longest possible use of electric cars. After just 2-3 years, simple transportation becomes sustainability. All we need to do is use renewable energy and keep the electric car in good condition.
‍

Even if you decide to switch to a newer model sooner, you can still contribute and find a new buyer with Cardino.

‍

‍

‍

FAQs

‍

When is an electric car considered sustainable?

‍An electric car is considered sustainable when the emission savings during the usage phase exceed the higher emissions from production. This typically occurs after 2-3 years of intensive use.

‍

How can you extend the lifespan of an electric car?

‍By regularly charging between 20%-80%, avoiding fast charging, protecting against extreme temperatures, regular maintenance, gentle driving, using regeneration, and keeping the software updated.

‍

What role does recycling play in the sustainability of electric cars?

‍Efficient recycling of batteries and vehicle parts is crucial to reducing environmental impact and reusing valuable materials, thereby increasing the sustainability of electric cars.

‍

How does using renewable energy affect the eco-friendliness of an electric car?

‍Using renewable energy can reduce an electric car's CO2 emissions by up to 60-80% compared to an ICE vehicle, significantly improving eco-friendliness.

‍

How does Cardino promote the sustainability of electric cars?

‍Cardino helps by reselling used electric cars to new owners, extending the vehicles' lifespan. This contributes to sustainability by conserving resources and maximizing the vehicles' lifespan.

‍