Ok I’ve heard this a few times that since EVs use burn more carbon in making lithium ion batteries and the electricity uses coal and is dirty. In looking through the lifecycle analysis a few things fall out
But the short answer is that EVs do have a higher footprint in manufacturing but because they are 4-5x more fuel efficient by the time you’ve driven 5,000 miles they are better for the environment.
Also in areas that use lots of hydro and solar, this happens even more quickly.
Also it looks like EVs are going to last a long time. 150K-250K miles is not unlikely so the savings are even higher.
Overall if you compare conventional cars, EVs use half the green house gases. Phew I feel better 🙂