In recent years, the Government of HKSAR has prominently promoted electric vehicles (EV) to help improve roadside air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  This focus on EVs begs the question: are EVs really better for the environment than regular cars?  Let's take a closer look.

The first thing to recognize is that the electric motor is significantly more powerful and efficient than a regular car engine, called an internal combustion engine (ICE).  We see evidence of this all over Hong Kong – the MTR, trams, trolleys, and the Kowloon-Canton Railway all run on electric motors.  If electric motors are so great, then, why don't we have more?  There is one huge difference between MTR trains and personal cars – the MTR can stay plugged in.  Cars, on the other hand, can't remain plugged in, so they need  a large battery.  This battery has been the biggest problem for EVs, but we are finally starting to see progress in this area.

Turning away from the batteries for a moment, let's look at some other factors.  Since electric motors are more efficient than ICEs, EVs use roughly half the energy and produce 50% less greenhouse gases (GHG). Additionally, roadside emissions – a significant concern in Hong Kong because of the congested streets and large buildings trapping the pollutants at ground level – are eliminated.   

In terms of costs, on average, electric vehicles have a higher purchase cost, but that higher cost is largely offset by fewer maintenance requirements.  For example, EVs do not need oil changes, tune-ups, or MOT certificates, and there are much fewer things that can break. Additionally, the fuel costs for EVs are roughly one-third of petrol, and if the EVs are charged at night during the off-peak hours, the costs go down even further.  

With all these factors, the Hong Kong government recognizes that EVs will represent a much bigger portion of cars in the city in the future.  Next time you see a quiet, clean, and zero-emissions electric car driving through town, you can be comforted in knowing that more are on the way.

Charts and table for consideration: