A study published in Energy Policy examines how a rapid shift to electric vehicles could change energy use in the United States between 2022 and 2035. Researchers used a version of a national energy model to compare different policy scenarios.
The study finds that widespread EV adoption by 2035 would cut household energy bills by about 6% and reduce spending at the gas pump by about 4%. It also finds oil imports would fall while exports could rise. Greater EV demand could speed battery improvements and slightly lower home electricity costs.
Authors warn the benefits are now uncertain after repeal of national EV incentives and a federal rollback of EV-boosting rules, and they say a nationwide strategy would help protect consumers and energy security.
Difficult words
- adoption — the act of starting to use something new
- scenario — a possible plan or situation for the futurescenarios
- incentive — a payment or rule to encourage certain choicesincentives
- repeal — an official action that ends a law or rule
- import — a product brought into a country from abroadimports
- export — a product sent from a country to other countriesexports
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Discussion questions
- What benefit for households does the study predict from more electric vehicles?
- How could changes in oil imports and exports affect your country or region?
- Do you think a nationwide strategy for electric vehicles would help consumers? Why or why not?
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