Why surging sales of large electric vehicles raises environmental red flags

• In 2019, 30% of the electric vehicle (EV) models available worldwide were sports utility vehicles (SUVs).
• As with many other batteries, the lithium-ion cells that power the majority of electric vehicles rely on raw materials such as cobalt, lithium and nickel.
• Batteries for electric SUVs demand that up to 75% more raw materials are extracted from the environment than this.

But that’s not all

• The production of batteries is also a highly carbon-intensive process, with emissions increasing as batteries grow in size.
• For example, the CO₂ emissions resulting from materials processing and battery manufacturing can soar to levels 70% higher for electric SUVs compared to smaller EVs.

• Adding to the complexity is the EU’s recent decision to mandate a minimum proportion of recycled material in new EV batteries.
• As of 2021, regulations have required that 6% of the nickel and lithium, and 14% of the cobalt in EV batteries must be sourced from recycled materials.

We need clean electricity

• But, as the energy sources used to generate electricity are influenced by factors including availability and the dynamics of the energy market, the carbon intensity of the electricity supply can often vary.
• Even if electricity grids do become cleaner, the increasing demand generated by the need to charge these larger batteries could put pressure on power grids.
• Transmission and distribution systems were designed at a time when power plants were large and centralised, and electricity demand was relatively low.
• Utilities companies are working to reinforce electricity grids worldwide by, for example, building more lines to transfer the additional power.

Motorists are increasingly opting for large electric SUVs. But the environmental impact of these vehicles should not be underestimated. The relentless demand for battery materials and electricity raises the question of whether SUVs will continue to be a viable green option.
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The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.