Exploring Environmental Impacts, Total Costs of Ownership, and Technical Specifications of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles Compared to Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles

This paper reviews the environmental impacts, total costs of ownership and technical specifications of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (EVs) compared to Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs). The study addresses the complexities of EV life-cycle emissions, emphasizing the role of energy sources, efficiency, and recycling in shaping the environmental footprint. While EVs generally exhibit lower life-cycle emissions than ICEVs, the outcome is contingent upon factors such as electricity sources, vehicle efficiency, driving patterns, and recycling options. The paper provides an analysis of the total costs of ownership, including upfront costs, running expenses, and maintenance requirements for both EVs and ICEVs. Despite higher upfront costs for EVs, the study highlights their potential for long-term savings due to lower operating and maintenance expenses. Furthermore, the paper examines the technical specifications of EVs, Hybrids and ICEVs, revealing distinct performance characteristics and trade-offs of EVs and Hybrids compared to ICEVs. The comparative analysis highlighted differences in weights and cornering performance, with EVs which are typically heavier with better cornering performance due to batteries. Refueling/charging times differed significantly, with EVs requiring longer charging periods. The braking systems showcased superior efficiency in EVs and hybrids, utilizing regenerative braking. The propulsion units illustrated distinctions in torque, power, and efficiency between electric motors and ICEs. Power transmission systems revealed EVs and Hybrids simplified and beneficial design. The comparison between EVs, Hybrids and ICEVs contributes valuable insights into the ongoing evolution and competition between these automotive technologies, ultimately guiding the trajectory of the transportation sector in the pursuit of sustainability.

Keywords:

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) : EVs vs. ICEVs , EV Performance Trade-offs , Sustainable Transportation Future