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Research Paper | Commerce and Economic Studies | Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026 | Pages: 503 - 505 | India
A Comparative Life-Cycle Assessment of Next-Generation Electric Vehicles: Balancing Grid Decarbonization and Resource Scarcity
Abstract: The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is a cornerstone of transport decarbonization. However, the environmental benefits are non-uniform and highly dependent on supply chains and regional energy grids. Objective: This study evaluates the life-cycle environmental impacts of current Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) and Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) batteries across varying grid infrastructure regimes. Utilizing a Cradle-to-Grave Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) framework, we model greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, human toxicity, and mineral depletion using GREET and Ecoinvent databases. EVs operating on a highly decarbonized grid (e.g., >80% renewables) achieve an emissions breakeven point within 18,000 km of driving relative to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Conversely, in coal-dominated grids, the environmental amortization period extends past 110,000 km. Policy frameworks must integrate localized grid projections with circular economy mandates for battery recycling to avoid shifting the environmental burden upstream.
Keywords: Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP), NMC, GHG, GREET
How to Cite?: Dr. G. Tamilselvi, M. Sugitha, "A Comparative Life-Cycle Assessment of Next-Generation Electric Vehicles: Balancing Grid Decarbonization and Resource Scarcity", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 503-505, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26630172740, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26630172740