Comparative Analysis of Carbon Footprint Reduction Potential in Evs Versus Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles

Abstract

This study conducts a comprehensive comparative analysis of the carbon footprint reduction potential between electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs). Leveraging global life cycle assessment (LCA) data including ICCT findings we find that EVs consistently achieve substantial greenhouse gas reductions across multiple regions: 66–69 % in Europe, 60–68 % in the U.S., 37–45 % in China, and 19–34 % in India, with improvements projected by 2030 as grids decarbonize (2021 ICCT) Despite EVs exhibiting higher manufacturing emissions particularly from battery production they surpass ICEVs in total cradle-to-grave emissions within typical usage lifespans . A mid-sized EV, over 200,000 km, reduces global warming potential dramatically: ~23.6 t CO₂-eq compared to ~52.2 t CO₂-eq for diesel ICEVs. Location of battery production and energy mix play pivotal roles: manufacturing in renewable-powered regions like Norway cuts emissions, while coal-dominant regions amplify them. Operational benefits stem from EVs’ higher energy efficiency and zero tailpipe emissions, especially in urban areas with clean electricity, reducing both CO₂ and local pollutants. In fossil-heavy grids, EVs still outperform ICEVs in life cycle emissions, though margins are narrower. The analysis underscores that continued transition to EVs paired with cleaner energy grids and improved battery technologies offers a robust strategy for deep carbon reduction in the transport sector.