Electric Vehicles Cause More Particle Pollution, Says Recent Study

Electric vehicles (EVs) are being promoted as better environment-friendly transportation options as they do not have any greenhouse gas emissions. But a recent study by Emission Analytics, a firm that analyses emissions data, claims that EVs also cause particle pollution, which originates from brakes and tires.

The key finding of the study published in a Wall Street Journal op-ed is that EVs, due to their heavier weight, may release significantly more particulate matter from brakes and tyres compared to modern petroleum-powered vehicles with efficient exhaust filters.

The study suggests that the particle emission of EVs could be 1,850 times greater.

The concern lies in tyre wear, with Emission Analytics pointing out that EVs’ heavier weight causes tyres to deteriorate faster, releasing harmful chemicals into the air. This is because most tires are made from synthetic rubber derived from crude oil.

The study also highlights the impact of battery weight. EVs typically have heavier batteries compared to traditional gasoline engines. This extra weight puts more strain on the brakes and tyres, accelerating wear and tear.