Comparison of Primary Energy Consumption by Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles and Electric Vehicles 891381

We calculated energy efficiency from primary energy sources (petroleum, coal, natural gas) to finished energy products (gasoline and electricity), and projected fuel economy of ICEVs and electricity consumption of EVs. The resultant pre-mile primary energy consumption of EVs and ICEVs shows that when petroleum is the primary energy source, EVs will consume more energy than ICEVs in 1989, and less in 2000, assuming advanced batteries and technologies for EVs are developed by 2000. If coal is the primary energy source, EVs will consume less energy than ICEVs in 1989, and much less in 2000.