Electric Vehicles: The Weighty Problem in the Future of Transport
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Chapter 1: The Rise of Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) are on the rise, and this phenomenon comes with its own set of challenges. A prime example is the electric F-150, which is 700 kg heavier than its gasoline-powered counterpart.
In the United States, pick-up trucks and SUVs now represent 57% of vehicle sales, a significant increase from 30% in 1990. This trend has contributed to an increase in the overall weight of new vehicles: cars have gained 12% (173 kg), SUVs 7% (136 kg), and pick-up trucks 32% (573 kg) since 1990.
With plans in motion across regions like the United Kingdom, California, the European Union, and Canada to eliminate fossil-fueled vehicles by 2030, the shift toward electric models is accelerating. This transition is largely driven by a dramatic reduction in battery costs—down by 90% in the past decade. However, this shift has led to a concerning increase in vehicle weight.
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Section 1.1: The Dangers of Heavier Vehicles
The increasing weight of vehicles raises serious safety concerns. Studies indicate that the risk of fatalities in a collision rises by 12% for every 500 kg difference between vehicles.
Moreover, pedestrians are at greater risk due to the prevalence of heavier SUVs. If those who switched to SUVs over the last two decades had opted for smaller vehicles instead, it is estimated that over 1,000 pedestrian fatalities could have been avoided.
Subsection 1.1.1: Environmental Impact
The increase in vehicle weight also exacerbates pollution. Heavier cars produce more particulate matter due to increased tire wear. Therefore, there is a compelling reason to innovate lighter, more efficient electric vehicles—essentially, we need our cars to be more like mice than elephants.
Section 1.2: Legislative Responses
Some U.S. states are introducing weight-based taxes on vehicles, which could help mitigate the loss of revenue from fossil fuel taxes.
Regardless of the measures taken, caution is advised when sharing the road with these heavier EVs—especially if you are not driving one yourself.
Chapter 2: Global Trends in Electric Vehicle Sales
The first video titled "EV Sales Are Up Globally - Here's All The Facts" provides an overview of the surging global demand for electric vehicles, detailing the statistics and trends that shape this market.
In the second video, "Electric Car Sales Worldwide Grow and Media Has Melt Down (or Just Lies)," the discussion centers on the media's portrayal of electric vehicle sales and the realities behind the numbers.
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