Analysis of greenhouse gas emissions from electric vehicle considering electric energy structure, climate and power economy of ev: A China case

Electric vehicle (EV) is considered as a powerful tool for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The effectiveness of EV in decreasing GHG emissions is influenced by factors such as electric energy structure, climate and power economy of EV, needs to be further explored. Consequently, a modified electric vehicle emissions index (MEVEI) model is established to conduct a China case study and quantify the effect of these factors on the GHG emissions of EV in 31 provinces. The provinces are divided into eight clusters via k-means cluster analysis of electric energy structure and climate. After clusters with a similar power economy value of EV are combined, the eight clusters are merged into five. For provinces in cluster III and IV where fossil-fuel electricity accounts for more than 80%, the GHG emissions of EV can be reduced through trade-off between fossil-fuel electricity proportion and power economy of EV. When the temperature is sub-zero, the GHG emissions of EV are higher than those of fuel vehicle (FV); when the temperature is above 25 degrees C, the usage of EV can be promoted to make the GHG emissions of EV less than those of FV. When the power economy value of class III EV decreases by 20%, EV deployment can reduce the GHG emissions in provinces except cluster V. Policy recommendations are formulated in consideration of the specific obstacles of EV promotion. Moreover, the result establishes a solid foundation for accurate performance evaluation of the GHG emissions of EV for four quarters in 31 China's provinces.