Are EVs Better Than ICE Vehicles?

There are a number of big concerns when it comes to the issue of whether electric vehicles (EVs) are better than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. One of those issues is safety; another is how to handle fires (a big problem with EVs, but not so much with ICE vehicles); a third is the manufacturing impact, and a fourth is life expectancy. This paper takes the position that when all is said and done, ICE vehicles are still far better than EVs on all four points, which means EVs should not be promoted as the better product of the two.

The first point of contention is the question of safety. EVs are routinely promoted as being safe and low-risk (Zohar et al.). There is also a lot of assumption about future improvements built into the EV promotion (Ellsmoor). However, a simple look at the record shows more problems than solutions: On the matter of safety and risk, there is the major red flag of lithium-ion batteries. As Larsson et al. explain, lithium-ion batteries have many advantages but the window of stability is relatively small (both regarding temperature and voltage). The cells must therefore be monitored and controlled, by BMS. Overheating may cause a severe malfunction; if the temperature exceeds typically 120-150 C, exothermal reactions within the cell can start. In fact, EVs suddenly bursting into flames is a common sight for anyone who follows the phenomenon on social media or news sites like Zero Hedge. More importantly, the research by Larsson et al. and that quote in particular highlights the safety concerns and risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in EVs. They are simply too unstable to compare to the stability of fuel offered by ICE vehicles. ICE vehicles do not spontaneously combust, but EVs sure do. The need for constant monitoring and control to prevent overheating and potential malfunctions could be seen as a disadvantage compared to ICE vehicles.

The second big problem point is on the matter of handling fires involving EVs. This is not a simple process and nowhere near as easy as it is to extinguish fires of ICE vehicles. Again, Larsson et al. provide the explanation: "Evidence exists that electric vehicles burn fiercely and that the fire is difficult to extinguish[however] The advice from manufacturers is often to let the vehicle burn or to use water...

Letting the vehicle burn is not a viable option in e.g. a garage, a ferry or in a tunnel (42). This is clearly a problem for firemen as well, who have yet to come up with a suitable approach to putting out EV fires: these fires are nearly impossible to put out, and that is when EVs catch fire there is nothing left: everything is incinerated until the battery finally stops burning. This potential for fierce burning and difficulty in extinguishing such fires could be considered a significant drawback...…another critical aspect of the debate. EVs are often considered safer due to the absence of combustible fuel and a lower center of gravity, which reduces the risk of rollovers. However, the safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, including potential thermal runaway and challenges in extinguishing battery fires, are points of concern raised by critics (Miano). ICE vehicles, with their long history and extensive safety testing, have established protocols for handling accidents and fires. However, they are not without risks, as the combustion of fuel presents an inherent fire risk, and oil leaks can pose additional safety hazards.

In conclusion, the choice between EVs and ICE vehicles depends on a variety of factors, including individual priorities, needs, and circumstances. As technology continues to advance and infrastructure develops, the automotive landscape is poised to evolve, potentially addressing current drawbacks of both types of vehicles and further shaping the ongoing debate. As far as this paper is concerned, though, the choice is clear: EVs are not better than ICE vehicles; in fact, they are worse in many different ways, from safety to efficiency.

Works Cited

Ellsmoor, James. Are Electric Vehicles Really Better For The Environment? Forbes, 2019.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesellsmoor/2019/05/20/are-electric-vehicles-really-better-for-the-environment/?sh=34d805df76d2

Larsson, Fredrik, Petra Andersson, and Bengt-Erik Mellander. "Are electric vehicles safer than

combustion engine vehicles?." Chalmers Publication OAI, 2017: 34-48. https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/70606014.pdf

Miano, Nicholas. Why Electric Cars Are Worse Than Gasoline Cars in Every Possible Way.

The Kestrel, 2018. https://xkestrel.com/4949/opinions/vs/why-electric-cars-are-worse-than-gasoline-cars-in-every-possible-way/

Zohar, Tali, Yael Parag, and Ofira Ayalon. "Of agency, action, and influence: the middle-out

mechanism for promoting a low-carbon energy…