Electric cars are considered an important building block against man-made climate change. A new study from China now suggests that they may have another effect: They may have saved the lives of hundreds of thousands of people because the air has become cleaner.
What results have the researchers published? It is known that electric and hybrid vehicles emit less CO₂ or none at all compared to combustion engines. Researchers wanted to know what impact the increasing prevalence of electric cars has had on air quality in China.
To do this, they examined the development in 150 Chinese cities and compared the actual air quality with a scenario in which vehicles would have continued to run exclusively on petrol or diesel. The result was clear: The concentration of carbon monoxide is said to have decreased by around 30 percent, while the burden of particulate matter (PM2.5) fell by more than 23 percent (Nature).
Particularly noteworthy is the researchers’ estimate that between 2020 and 2024, about 262,000 premature deaths could have been prevented – due to lower mortality from lung cancer, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as strokes. The scientists attribute this effect mainly to the reduced exposure to health-damaging pollutants in the cities. (via TechRadar)
Similar trends were already shown in previous studies from the USA and China: In regions with a high density of electric cars, pollutant levels measurably decreased. For example, in some Californian areas, nitrogen dioxide pollution dropped by nearly 4 percent. Urban centers particularly benefited from this; rural areas, on the other hand, recorded significantly lower effects. (The Lancet & IOP Science)
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution remains the greatest environmental health risk in the European region as well as worldwide. (WHO)
Are electric cars number 1?
Is this the definitive proof that electric cars are better? The results speak for electric cars, but the picture is not all rosy. Because while electric cars produce fewer emissions on the road, problems arise elsewhere: in the production of the batteries. They require raw materials, the extraction of which is often problematic. (Journal of Energy Storage)
However, there are developments in this area. Manufacturers are working on better solutions, recycling is increasing, and costs are noticeably decreasing. Reports suggest that a battery replacement could soon be cheaper than some repairs of combustion engines. (IEA Global Outlook 2024)
What do you think of the study from China? Are the health benefits of clean air a strong argument for electric cars – even considering the finite resources? Feel free to share your opinion in the comments!
While proponents can point to advantages for climate and health based on the study results, intense discussions about batteries, raw materials, and safety are ongoing. Another major issue has already been addressed by a Chinese manufacturer: Starting in mid-2026, batteries may neither catch fire nor explode. The world’s largest battery manufacturer CATL is the first company to comply with the latest Chinese safety standards.
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