Automobile sales across the Gulf countries are exponentially increasing, showing the enhanced buying power of consumers. While these statistics are pleasing for automakers, authorities in these countries are concerned about the rapidly increasing pollution this trend brings along.
Air pollution claims over 7 million deaths across the globe annually. In UAE alone, 850 deaths are caused by pollution every year. These alarming figures require both the governments and people of these countries to take solid steps for making their environment green.
Electric cars are the latest automotive trend worldwide, with a wide range of electric cars being produced every year by different automakers. They can play a vital role in reducing air pollution in the Arab States. In addition to offering an array of advantages over normal fuelled vehicles, electric cars can help achieve a green society which is the primary need of the hour.
Let’s explore five reasons to use electric cars in Arab states:
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Electric Cars are Quiet:
Electric cars are really quiet; the slight hum of the tyres against the road being the only sound you hear. This provides the passengers a soothing ride and cuts down the noise pollution. Noise level in fuelled cars on the other hand may be as high as 75-80 decibels.
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Electric Cars have less Energy Losses:
In fuelled vehicles, a lot of energy is lost in the form of heat, friction against the road, air resistance and other external forces. Only 15% of the energy produced by the fuel is actually utilised by the car. However, electric vehicles convert 90% of the chemical energy to electrical energy. So not only are these fuelled cars costing us a lot in terms of fuel but are also inefficient at utilising the energy produced by burning fuel. This is a convincing reason to prefer electric cars.
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Less Maintenance:
The maintenance of electric vehicles is relatively hassle-free. They lack parts like air filters, spark plugs and fan belts which need frequent replacement, thus reducing trips to the mechanic. Brakes in electric vehicles also last longer as they slow down by reversing the electric motor instead of stopping mechanically. Batteries in are also durable and can last up to 8 years. All this adds up to make them trouble-free cars.
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Money Saving:
Because electric cars require less maintenance and don’t need fuel to function, it goes without saying that they save you a lot of money. Although they are usually more expensive than fuelled cars up front, they are much cheaper in the long run.
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Zero Emissions:
Last but certainly not the least, they have no tailpipes as they do not release any gases. Technically, they are not emission-free as pollution is also caused by electricity generation for charging electric cars. But they reduce the carbon dioxide produced by fuelled cars by up to 35-60%. The use of solar, hydro and wind power units for generating electricity for powering electric cars can further reduce this percentage in the future.
Electric cars are the ultimate solution to the pollution and excessive fuel consumption issues faced by the Arab States and steps need to be taken to encourage use of electric cars in Arab States. Installation of electric car charging stations in all cities can promote and facilitate the use of electric vehicles. Dubai is aiming to be a green city and charging stations are being installed throughout the city. All other Arab States need to undertake this task to encourage people to buy electric cars and make their environment green.