Perspectives and challenges of vehicle electrification: An academic review

Abstract

Advances in technology have undoubtedly brought enormous benefits to society. On the other hand, these same advances bring new and even unknown impacts to the environment. When the theme is transportation systems, electric vehicles are the most modern and technological, being considered by the mainstream media as the most environmentally sustainable transportation model. However, little is discussed regarding the impacts and harms that are tied to this type of vehicles. In this way, this study aims at highlighting the main challenges and perspectives of the vehicular electrification technology, through a systematic review on the topic. The results obtained point out that electric cars may be responsible for the increase of eco-toxicity not only with respect to air quality, but also water and metal depletion. And, it also highlights, the existence of other technologies as alternatives to vehicle electrification.