A few weeks ago, Sam and I became more intimately involved in the EV (Electric Vehicle) controversy.
Which helped us discern the slew of issues involved with adopting these wonderful vehicles. Like the environmental costs of mining lithium, the fact that we haven’t upgraded our electric grids (and even killed Senator Manchin’s compromise bill that would have allowed us to more rapidly replace our aging electric infrastructure- because without it, we are going to be forced to use fossil fuels as the electric supply for these batteries), among other cost/environmental situations arising as we grow this business segment.
Nevertheless, the Inflation Reduction Act (sic) has been passed; it’s primary effect in this area is the promotion of electronic vehicle sales and use. So, they are coming- ready or not. Which means we need to find better (cheaper, more environmentally friendly) components to produce those batteries.
There are also firms- Volvo, Nikola, Toyota, Kenilworth, Navistar, and Daimler and its Freightliner division , come to mind that are not relying on lithium batteries for their EV systems, but are hoping to use Green Hydrogen (hydrogen produced using alternative energy sources) as the prime mover (in fuel cells) for their EV.
And, if new engines are developed, they can capitalize on the fact that hydrogen provides thrice the energy per unit mass that is provided by diesel or conventional gasoline. (Right now, our initial thoughts are this is the better solution. But, just like our need to put electric charging stations across America- we need to develop hydrogen fueling stations. ) But, of course, a kilogram of hydrogen currently runs about $ 14, versus $ 5 for a gallon of diesel- and both provide about the same energy. So, it’s not without its own challenges.
Trucking firms (including Anheuser Busch, which has placed an order for 800 such trucks- actually via lease- from Nikola) are interested in the hydrogen version, since they present a much lighter weight alternative to the battery powered tractor (truck). (Remember, most of our tractors are pulling 40,000 pounds of freight- adding several tons of batteries to the dry weight of the truck means fuel economies (or cruise length on a charge) are detrimentally affected. Plus, one can refill the “tank” of the truck with hydrogen in about 1/5 the time it takes to recharge a battery fully.
It’s going to be an interesting few years.
I am totally confused on EV, what if we run out of battery while driving and will each household need to have a charging system? I was hoping this would come a few years later when I am in an old folks home and not driving as much. LOL
Yes, we probably need a charger at home- or a very nearby EV charging station. And, a network of charging stations across America, so we won’t run out of electicity, Martha.
Pricing is going to be huge. Once pricing starts coming down it will be easier to convert the masses.
GM is offering an electric vehicle for $ 30K. That’s about the same price as conventional cars. IT’s not clear if that is before or after the tax credit.
Interesting discussion on the future of EV cars. I am curious what you have decided on or if you are waiting for more green hydrogen car options? Thank you for sharing. Jaime
I lean towards the hydrogen- but certainly want to ensure that we build our upgraded electric grid, so the power is generated from solar and wind- and not other fossil fuels. Because then we are really not fixing the climate- but we are reducing our pollution load.
Too long since I have been here (or actually commented on your posts).. We here in California who have still not got ourselves a hybrid or EV definitely have our fingers crossed that a cost-effective EV is on the way sooner than later… for now, it is the gas-guzzler unfortunately (but thankfully, also still working from home!!)
I, for one, hesitate to buy an EV now. First, because I can’t install a charger by my home- without dropping $5K more. Second, there lacks an infrastructure out there ensuring I can return home safely- or reach my destination. (I won’t own two cars for myself.)