CN

In-Depth Analysis of Environmental Impact of New Energy Vehicles: Energy Consumption, Pollution, and Social Responsibility

06
2024.11

I. Introduction

In recent years, the call for energy conservation and emission reduction has been growing louder, and the global progress towards "carbon neutrality" is accelerating. The replacement of fuel-powered vehicles by new energy vehicles (NEVs) has become an inevitable trend, but achieving low energy consumption and minimal pollution throughout the entire vehicle life cycle is crucial. Focusing solely on the NEV itself while neglecting the development and improvement of its upstream, downstream, and related industries could defeat the original purpose of reducing carbon emissions.

 

II. Energy Consumption and Environmental Pollution

  1. Environmental Impact of Power Battery Production
    The lithium batteries on which NEVs depend have a significant environmental impact during production, along with high energy consumption. Lithium extraction requires a substantial amount of water resources, which can seriously damage ecosystems, and there is a risk of toxic chemical element leakage. An effective way to mitigate these environmental impacts is through recycling, reducing the resource consumption of the primary production process.
  2. Waste Emissions and Producer Responsibility
    The potential environmental impact of waste generated during NEV production deserves attention. The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system requires producers to extend their responsibility to the waste disposal phase of the product life cycle, ensuring environmental protection.

 

III. Social Public Opinion and Corporate Responsibility

  1. Labor Management and Working Conditions
    With the rapid growth in demand for electric vehicles, some manufacturers have faced labor management issues such as poor working conditions, low wages, and excessive overtime during capacity expansion. Companies must address and improve these issues promptly to enhance their social performance.
  2. Product Quality and Safety
    During rapid expansion, some NEV manufacturers have seen significant quality and safety issues in their products. These basic social concerns need to be addressed with urgency to ensure product reliability and safety.

 

IV. Safe Usage Environment

  1. Power Battery Safety
    Recently, several NEV fires caused by thermal runaway in batteries have been widely reported. One of the main causes is the excessive pursuit of energy density in batteries. Additionally, inadequate testing and verification, as well as shortened testing periods, could also lead to safety hazards.
  2. Automated Driving Assistance Technology
    Since the deployment of automated driving assistance technology, there has been a surge in reports of traffic accidents. While manufacturers strive to improve the safety of these technologies, they also have a duty to provide adequate safety warnings and training to users, raising driver safety awareness.

 

V. Fulltech Casting's Environmental Commitment

In response to these environmental and social challenges, Fulltech Casting recognizes the importance of corporate responsibility. Throughout our production process for precision die-cast components, we adhere to the green manufacturing philosophy by using environmentally friendly materials and advanced processes to minimize waste emissions. Additionally, we are actively involved in research on power battery recycling, contributing to the sustainable development of the NEV industry.

 

Conclusion

Through this in-depth analysis of the environmental impact of NEVs, we find that multiple challenges still need to be overcome to achieve true energy conservation and emission reduction. To promote the sustainable development of NEVs, every link in the supply chain, including Fulltech Casting, must undergo continuous optimization and improvement. In the next article, we will explore how to achieve the sustainable development of NEVs and discuss future prospects.