The recent update to Green NCAP’s Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data and fact sheets introduces significant enhancements in environmental impact assessment within the automotive sector. This update expands data coverage to include additional countries like Norway and new fuel types such as LPG and E85. It also integrates the latest statistics on battery production, electricity supply, and biofuel mixes. A notable finding from the updated LCA data is the approximately 16% reduction in emissions from battery production, measured in kg CO2-equivalent per kWh capacity, attributed to economies of scale and manufacturers’ sustainability efforts. Furthermore, projections indicate that the carbon intensity of electricity in Europe, measured in grams CO2-equivalent per kWh, is expected to decrease by about 26% by 2039 compared to previous estimates. This shift contributes to a reduction in the total carbon footprint of battery electric vehicles by around 15%, resulting in an average decrease of 20 grams CO2-equivalent per kilometer and a lifetime CO2 saving of 4.8 tonnes per vehicle.
Ricardo, a globally recognized consultancy in vehicle life-cycle assessment, played a key role in this update by providing detailed data projections for electricity supply across European countries. Their contributions, known for their quality and transparency, were based on two scenarios: Baseline (REF2020) and Tech1.5, with further updates from the MIX scenario within the Fit-for-55 package. The update also notes a significant shift in the biomass composition of biofuels, predicting that by 2050, FAME (biodiesel) will consist of 13 percentage points more used cooking oil and 16 percentage points less palm oil, thereby reducing the fuel’s overall lifetime emissions. Green NCAP’s commitment to transparency, exemplified by publicly sharing detailed data and methodology, sets its LCA apart from other assessments. This approach not only provides a standardized and realistic comparison of vehicles but also enhances consumer operability and decision-making. The update solidifies Green NCAP’s LCA as a reliable and up-to-date tool for evaluating the environmental impacts of modern vehicles.
