Study Reveals EVs Produce Less Brake And Tire Pollution With Fewer Non-Exhaust Emissions

A new study from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) has challenged common assumptions about electric vehicle (EV) pollution, revealing that EVs can generate less particulate matter from brakes and tires compared to traditional gasoline vehicles—despite their heavier weight.

The extensive research, published in Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, examined a critical aspect of EV environmental impact that often goes unnoticed: non-exhaust emissions. While EVs are well-known for producing zero tailpipe emissions, questions have lingered about their contribution to air pollution through brake and tire wear.

Led by Hesham Rakha, Director of VTTI’s Center of Sustainable Mobility, researchers analyzed 24 different vehicles, including electric, hybrid, and gasoline-powered models. The team used VTTI’s sophisticated INTEGRATION software to model emissions under various driving conditions, including city driving, highway driving, and aggressive high-acceleration scenarios.

The findings revealed a nuanced picture of EV environmental impact. Despite being around 40% heavier than their gasoline counterparts, EVs demonstrated superior environmental performance under specific conditions. “The model that we developed proved that battery electric vehicles, in the right conditions, have more environmental advantages,” explained Rakha.

A key factor in this environmental edge is regenerative braking—a technology unique to EVs that captures braking energy to recharge the battery. This process significantly reduces brake dust emissions by relying on the electric motor rather than traditional brake pads to slow the vehicle, particularly beneficial in urban environments.

Traffic conditions play a crucial role in determining emission levels. The study found that EVs produce fewer non-exhaust emissions in heavy traffic situations. However, when roads are clearer, their greater weight can lead to increased particulate pollution compared to gasoline vehicles. The research established a clear threshold: if at least 15% of driving occurs in city conditions, EVs maintain their position as the cleaner option overall.

These insights could have meaningful implications for urban planning and environmental policy. The INTEGRATION software used in the study offers transportation planners and policymakers a powerful tool to evaluate and manage vehicular emissions at a city-wide level, potentially helping shape future sustainable transportation strategies.

Read More: Winter EV Performance Study Reveals Cold Weather Reduces EV Range By Up To 39%

As cities worldwide continue to grapple with air pollution challenges, this research provides important evidence supporting the environmental benefits of EVs, even beyond their well-known advantage of zero tailpipe emissions.

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