Electric Vehicles (EVs) are powered solely by electricity, generated by a battery (battery electric vehicles, or BEVs), solar panels (solar-powered vehicles, or SEVs), or a fuel cell (fuel cell vehicles, or FCVs). EVs are the fastest growing segment of new cars sold in the United States, and have the potential to replace traditional gas and diesel vehicles as the majority of cars on the road.

Compared to gasoline-powered vehicles, Electric Vehicles emit far fewer tailpipe pollutants and emissions that contribute to air pollution and climate change. They produce zero carbon dioxide emissions and do not burn fossil fuels, which are a significant source of air pollutants such as volatile organic compounds, nitrogen oxides, and particulates. These pollutants, particularly the fine particles less than 2.5 microns in size (PM2.5), can cause respiratory problems such as asthma. EVs’ use of electricity reduces greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful chemicals to nearly zero, making them the greenest car available for most drivers.

The number of EVs in the world is increasing rapidly, with governments around the world supporting the adoption of zero-emission mobility. Many countries provide financial incentives for consumers, fleets, businesses, and public institutions to purchase or lease EVs, including federal clean vehicle tax credits, state and utility rebates, and zero-emission vehicle sales targets.

In addition to government incentives, EVs are supported by industry-wide efforts to improve battery technology and expand charging infrastructure. These efforts include increasing the number of standardized connectors, developing more efficient batteries, and advancing new powertrain technologies.

Today’s EVs offer more range and convenience than ever, and can be used to replace almost any type of existing car on the market. EVs have a quieter, smoother drive and are often cheaper to operate than conventional vehicles. They also can help reduce driving stress and allow drivers to focus on other things while they drive, which can lead to improved mental health.

In some cases, EV owners are eligible for special perks and benefits, such as preferred parking spaces, access to some HOV highway lanes, free metered parking, and reduced or eliminated tolls. They can also save money on fuel costs and enjoy lower maintenance expenses.

However, EVs do have limitations, and barriers remain to greater adoption. These challenges are primarily related to battery cost, energy density, and the need for reliable infrastructure to support EVs’ widespread use.

Some of these obstacles have already been addressed, but others will need to be tackled as the EV market continues to grow. Some of these include improving the reliability and durability of batteries, reducing their weight, improving safety features, and developing innovative hybrid electric powertrains.

Another important issue is the price volatility of critical minerals, which are key ingredients in EVs’ lithium-ion batteries. Currently, most common lithium-ion chemistries depend on the rare metals cobalt and nickel, but there are a growing number of EV options using a different chemistry that does not require these materials. This could make a big difference in getting to a net-zero transportation scenario.