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Life-cycle assessment of the batteries used in electric motorcycles in Ecuador

Abstract:

Electric vehicles are promoted to reduce the environmental impacts and energy demand of transport. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are critical elements for the operation of electric vehicles, but their production and final disposal cause environmental pollution. This work analyzed the entire life cycle of the electric motorcycle's LIBs, focusing on real-world use. The real-world autonomy and battery capacity were evaluated in urban, rural, and motorway routes of Ibarra, Ecuador. The LCA was computed in GaBi and Ecoinvent, while 12 midpoint impacts were assessed using the ReCiPe 2016 methodology. Results showed that most of the impacts are primarily produced in the production stage (China); in particular, climate change in production is significantly higher than in other stages. Human toxicity is primarily produced at the disposal stage, where usually the vehicle is used. Ozone depletion and particle matter formation resulted significative in production and transportation stages. The impact caused by the use of the vehicle was, in general, low because about 90 % of electricity in Ecuador is produced from alternative energy sources. This comprehensive analysis can be used by policymakers to implement taxes and incentives to change the vehicle's market and to promote the recycling and reuse of the LIBs.