Comparative between electric mobility and combustion: key differences and perspectives

The differences between the world of electric mobility and the world of combustion cover several key aspects, from environmental impact to operation and associated costs. Here are the main points of contrast:

1.  Environmental impact

• Electric mobility: Produces zero direct emissions of polluting gases, helping to mitigate climate change and air pollution in cities. In addition, the energy efficiency of electric motors is much higher.
• Combustion: It generates CO2 emissions, NOx and fine particles, which contribute to global warming and public health problems. The burning of fossil fuels has a more significant environmental impact.

2. Operating costs

• Electric mobility: Recharging costs are usually lower than fuel costs, especially if it is charged at home or during off-peak hours. In addition, maintenance is cheaper because they have fewer moving parts and do not require oil changes or filters.
• Combustion: Fuel (gasoline or diesel) has a high cost, and maintenance includes more components such as belts, exhaust systems and fluid changes.

3. Technology and autonomy

• Electric mobility: Electric vehicles (EV) have a more limited autonomy (usually between 250 and 500km, although it is constantly improving). They require planning for long trips due to the availability of charging points.
• Combustion: They offer greater autonomy and faster refueling times, which makes them more practical for long trips.

4.Infrastructure

• Electric mobility: It depends on a network of charging points, which is expanding, but is still less accessible than gas stations in many regions.
• Combustion: Gas stations are widely distributed and are a mature and established infrastructure.

5. Driving experience

• Electric mobility: They offer instant and smooth acceleration thanks to the continuous motorcycle pair. In addition, they are extremely quiet, improving comfort.
• Combustion:They produce noise and vibrations that some consider part of the driving experience, but that can be less comfortable.

6. Shelf life and sustainability

• Electric mobility: Although batteries have a limited life cycle (8-15 years), they can be recycled or reused for energy storage. Its production involves the use of materials such as lithium, whose extraction can have environmental impacts.
• Combustion: Engines can be durable, but they depend on non-renewable fuels. In addition, internal combustion vehicles have a greater environmental impact throughout their useful life.

7. Legislation and public policies

• Electric mobility: Governments and cities encourage their adoption with tax incentives, financial aid and restrictions on combustion vehicles in urban areas.
• Combustion: In many regions, combustion vehicles are being regulated, with policies that aim to ban their sale in the coming decades.

8. Initial cost

• Electric mobility: Initial prices are higher due to the cost of batteries, although they are rapidly decreasing.
• Combustion: Vehicles are usually cheaper to acquire, but have higher operating costs in the long term.

9.Market and perception

• Electric mobility: It is seen as the future of transport, associated with innovations and sustainability.
• Combustion: Although it continues to dominate, its image is more linked to the past and the environmental impact.

In summary, while combustion mobility represents a mature system, but with significant environmental challenges, electric mobility aims to be the sustainable and efficient solution of the future, with a focus on the energy transition and the development of clean technologies.