Environmental Impacts of Internal Combustion Engine vs Electric Vehicle: Life-Cycle Assessment Review

Electric vehicles (EVs) play a substantial role in future sustainability developments. However, a clear environmental impact comparison between EV types and internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) are required. Therefore, a life-cycle assessment (LCA) could play an important role as an analysis tool in comparing the environmental impacts of different technologies. While several reviews on EV LCA exist, they often lack systematic literature reviews (SLR) using bibliometrics and content analysis. This article aims to find the research trend of EVs and examine the environmental impacts of different EV types in comparison with ICEVs. The results show the research trend area and provide a sound foundation for a more comprehensive environmental impact of EV by LCA. Our study indicates that locations with a significant reliance on fossil fuel electricity grids face substantial obstacles in reaping the benefits of EVs. Nonetheless, the prospective benefits of EVs are considerable. Future research has identified critical issues that must be addressed, reflecting the growing complexity of EV adoption challenges.