FIA Region I’s report seeks to understand whether sustainability outcomes could be improved, by changing policy or practice in five key areas: lifecycle emissions, manufacturing processes, energy efficiency, battery life, and transparency in consumer information.

Notably, the report highlights:

• The need for circular strategies  to lower carbon emissions during the manufacturing process. Recycled materials, including steel and aluminium, and innovations, like cobalt-free lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, can have a significant impact on the overall sustainability of the manufacture process.
• The importance of more accurate energy efficiency reporting, which the forthcoming Euro 7 standards are expected to address.
• The fact that consumers should have access to better information about battery health and durability, so that they can feel confident in their decision when buying an electric car.

Laurianne Krid, Director General of FIA Region I, said: “Our latest study answers the main questions consumers and policymakers have about electric vehicles. As EVs sales growth in Europe seems to stagnate, we need policies that address consumer concerns, ensuring the transition to cleaner mobility leaves no one behind.”

The report also provides a comprehensive list of policy recommendations to complement Europe’s existing and future legislation.

This research has been supported by the FIA Safe and Sustainable Mobility Grants Programme and the FIA Foundation.

You can read the full report here.