In recent years there has been much interest in electric cars. List some advantages and disadvantages of electric cars compared to automobiles with internal combustion engines.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Electric cars have advantages such as zero tailpipe emissions, high efficiency, and reduced operating costs. Furthermore, they can be charged from renewable energy sources and require trivial maintenance. But they also have disadvantages such as high upfront cost, longer and less convenient charging process, limited driving range and lack of charging infrastructure in certain areas.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Electric Cars

Electric cars are vehicles powered by electricity, typically provided by battery packs. Key features include zero tailpipe emissions, high efficiency, and the use of renewable energy sources. Their operation involves charging the battery pack, which powers the electric motor to move the car.
02

Understanding Internal Combustion Engines

Cars with internal combustion engines (ICE) run on fossil fuels such as petrol or diesel. These fuels combust inside the engine, creating an explosion that pushes the pistons and turns the wheels. They are characterized by high performance capability and extensive refuelling infrastructure.
03

Listing Advantages of Electric Cars

Advantages of electric cars include zero tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution and carbon output. Electric motors are more efficient than ICE, thus reducing operating costs. Furthermore, electric cars can be charged from renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. Trivial maintenance is also a big advantage because electric cars lack many mechanical parts present in ICE cars.
04

Listing Disadvantages of Electric Cars

Disadvantages include higher upfront cost due to expensive batteries, slower and less convenient recharging process compared to refuelling, limited driving range and lack of charging infrastructure in certain areas.
05

Comparing to Internal Combustion Engines

Compared to ICE cars, electric cars offer several environmental benefits but they do come with their own set of challenges mainly related to cost, infrastructure, and range.

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