Quien mató al coche electrico

Key Concepts

Electric vehicles (EVs), zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate, California Air Resources Board (CARB), internal combustion engine (ICE), global warming, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), oil industry influence, consumer demand, battery technology, renewable energy.

The Rise and Fall of the EV1

In 1996, electric cars, specifically the GM EV1, began appearing in California, offering a quiet, fast, and emission-free alternative to gasoline cars. However, within 10 years, these cars virtually disappeared. This wasn't the first "death" of the electric car; in the early 20th century, electric cars were more prevalent than gas cars, but advancements in gasoline car technology (automatic starters, cheaper oil, mass production) led to their dominance by 1920.

Smog and the Zero Emissions Mandate

California's severe air pollution problems, including high rates of asthma and lung disease, prompted the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to take action. In 1990, there were 41 stage 1 smog alerts. CARB passed the zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate, requiring automakers to sell a percentage of cars with no exhaust emissions in California (2% in '98, 5% in 2001, 10% in 2003). This was driven by the promise of the modern electric car, spearheaded by GM's Impact prototype, which became the EV1.

The EV1 and Initial Enthusiasm

The EV1 was marketed by GM's Saturn division and leased to customers in California and Arizona. Lessees praised its performance, styling, and environmental benefits. Other automakers also began producing electric cars, often conversions of gasoline models. However, skepticism remained among some consumers regarding range, practicality, and cost.

Opposition and Undermining of the Mandate

A group called Californians Against Utility Company Abuse, funded by the oil industry, fought against charging stations. Oil companies also funded editorials questioning the environmental benefits of EVs, arguing that electricity generation from coal would negate any gains. They even claimed that EVs were only for the wealthy. Car companies argued the mandate was too strict.

California compromised, adopting a memorandum of agreement. GM executives allegedly worked to undermine demand for the EV1, despite evidence of waiting lists. Marketing efforts were perceived as discouraging rather than enticing consumers.

GM's Actions and the Crushing of the EV1s

GM claimed to have spent over $1 billion to develop and market the EV1, leasing only 800 vehicles. They argued that demand was insufficient, despite waiting lists. Tom Everhart, a former GM board member, suggested that GM did not make a serious effort to promote electric cars.

At the end of 2001, GM closed the EV1 assembly line and laid off its sales force. They began taking back leased EV1s, refusing to allow customers to buy them. The returned EV1s were then crushed at GM's proving grounds in Arizona. Similar actions were taken by Ford and Toyota with their electric vehicles. Honda shredded their electric cars, claiming they were test cars that insurance companies wouldn't reinsure.

The Hydrogen Fuel Cell "Bait and Switch"

As the EV1 program was dismantled, the focus shifted to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The Bush Administration and the auto industry embraced hydrogen, with the federal government proposing $1.2 billion in research funding. California also promoted hydrogen through the California Fuel Cell Partnership.

Critics argued that hydrogen was a "bait and switch" tactic to delay the adoption of electric vehicles. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles were seen as further off and less efficient than battery electric vehicles.

The Fate of the Mandate and the Last EV1s

California dropped its ZEV mandate after being sued by automakers. Alan Lloyd, chairman of CARB, was criticized for prioritizing hydrogen over electric vehicles.

The remaining EV1s were taken from their owners and crushed. Activists staged protests and a funeral to raise awareness. One EV1 was eventually donated to the Petersen Automotive Museum, but it was disabled by GM.

The Future of Electric Cars and Renewable Energy

Despite the setbacks, the documentary concludes with a message of hope. The rise of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), advancements in battery technology, and the growing awareness of climate change are driving a renewed interest in electric cars.

Jim Woolsey, former Director of Central Intelligence, advocates for PHEVs as a way to reduce dependence on foreign oil. Shai Agassi is building a thin-film solar factory and converting cars to electric power. The documentary emphasizes the need for government leadership and policies that promote renewable energy and sustainable transportation.

Notable Quotes

• "I believe the problems of uh global warming will be far greater than the problems of social security or even the problems of war on terrorism"
• "Industries began to see if we don't kill this cancer in California it's going to spread to the rest of the country"
• "The electric vehicle is not for everybody given the limited range it can only meet the needs of 90% of the population"
• "I know what I did and why I did it and if I had to do the same thing again based on the data and I've seen what's happened to date I would do exactly the same thing"
• "It's a lack of leadership it's a lack of being able to take on the oil industry and the automobile industry and recognize that they're not Uncle Sam"

Technical Terms and Concepts

• Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate: A regulation requiring automakers to sell a certain percentage of vehicles with no tailpipe emissions.
• California Air Resources Board (CARB): The state agency responsible for air pollution control in California.
• Internal Combustion Engine (ICE): An engine that generates power by burning fuel inside the engine.
• Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards: Regulations in the United States to improve the average fuel economy of cars and light trucks.
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV): A hybrid vehicle that can be plugged into an electrical outlet to recharge its battery.

Logical Connections

The documentary traces the history of electric cars, highlighting the factors that led to their initial decline and subsequent resurgence. It connects the suppression of the EV1 to the influence of the oil and auto industries, the shift towards hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and the broader debate over energy policy and climate change. It argues that the failure of the EV1 was not due to a lack of consumer demand or technological feasibility, but rather to deliberate actions by powerful interests to protect the status quo.

Data and Statistics

• In 1990, there were 41 stage 1 smog alerts in Los Angeles.
• Every gallon of gas burned adds 19 lbs of carbon dioxide to the air.
• GM leased 800 EV1s from 1996 to 2000.
• The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge could supply America with slightly more than one year's supply of oil.
• Raising fuel economy standards to 40 mpg could save the same amount of fuel within 15 years.
• Fuel cell cars powered by hydrogen made with electricity use three to four times more energy than a car powered by batteries.

Synthesis/Conclusion

"Who Killed the Electric Car?" presents a compelling case that the demise of the EV1 was not a natural market outcome but a result of deliberate actions by automakers, oil companies, and government officials to protect their interests. While the EV1 may be gone, the documentary suggests that the dream of electric cars is not dead, and that advancements in technology, growing environmental concerns, and a renewed focus on energy independence are paving the way for a future where electric vehicles play a significant role. The film serves as a cautionary tale about the power of vested interests to stifle innovation and the importance of government policies that promote sustainable transportation.