Battery Electric Vehicles and Emissions in India
Recent studies reveal vital information about the emissions of passenger vehicles in India. A collaboration between the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee and the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) has shown that Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) emit up to 38 per cent less carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) per kilometre compared to Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. This research synthesises findings from six life-cycle greenhouse gas emission assessments.
Key Findings of the Study
The study marks three main factors that contribute to the variability in emissions – grid carbon intensity, laboratory test assumptions, and real-world driving conditions. Together, these factors account for nearly 75 per cent of the differences in emissions. The analysis indicates that emissions can vary based on grid mix and efficiency, with differences reaching up to 368 grams of CO₂e per kilometre.
Advantages of Battery Electric Vehicles
BEVs consistently outperform ICE and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) in terms of life-cycle GHG emissions. Their efficiency is maximised when analyses reflect real-world performance rather than unrealistic energy consumption assumptions. The study warns against delaying BEV adoption in anticipation of a cleaner grid. Vehicles that are ICE will remain operational for 10 to 15 years, continually contributing to emissions.
Real-World Performance and Testing
The discrepancy between laboratory test cycles and real-world fuel use in HEVs is . Accurate emissions accounting requires the application of real-world correction factors. BEVs demonstrate the highest energy efficiency in practice, underscoring the need for stringent fuel efficiency standards. Real-world adjustments are essential, particularly for BEVs, where charging losses are often overlooked.
Importance of Land-Use Change in Assessments
Many assessments fail to consider land-use change, leading to an underestimation of emissions from biofuels. For example, diesel production emissions vary widely depending on land-use change considerations. This oversight can misrepresent the environmental impact of biofuels and needs to be addressed in future evaluations.
Policy Recommendations
- The study outlines several actionable strategies for policymakers. These include accelerating BEV adoption while continuing efforts to decarbonise the grid.
- Strengthening fuel efficiency standards is crucial. Mandating on-board fuel and energy consumption meters can enhance transparency and data accuracy across all vehicle types.
- Additionally, incorporating land-use change impacts in biofuel life-cycle assessments is vital for accurate environmental cost evaluations.
- Researchers recommend that future assessments consider the evolving electricity grid, real-world energy use, and land-use emissions from biofuels to better inform clean transport policies.
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