A Systematic Review of Life Cycle Assessment of Electric Vehicles Studies: Goals, Methodologies, Results and Uncertainties

Oluwapelumi John Oluwalana () and Katarzyna Grzesik
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Oluwapelumi John Oluwalana: Department of Environmental Management and Protection, Faculty of Geo-Data Science, Geodesy and Environmental Engineering, AGH University of Krakow, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
Katarzyna Grzesik: Department of Environmental Management and Protection, Faculty of Geo-Data Science, Geodesy and Environmental Engineering, AGH University of Krakow, 30-059 Krakow, Poland

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 22, 1-26

Abstract: This review analyzes how recent electric-vehicle LCAs have been carried out, emphasizing goals and scope, functional units, system boundaries (cradle-to-grave and well-to-wheel), and attributional versus consequential modeling rather than reporting outcomes. Using a systematic search of studies mainly from 2018–2025, it maps common tools and data sources (Ecoinvent, GREET, GaBi, and regional inventories) and summarizes LCIA practices, underscoring the need to report versions, regionalization, and assumptions transparently for comparability. Uncertainty studies are uneven: sensitivity and scenario analyses are common, while probabilistic approaches (e.g., Monte Carlo) are less used, indicating room for more consistent, multi-parameter uncertainty analysis. The results show that outcomes are context-dependent: BEVs deliver the largest life-cycle GHG cuts on low-carbon grids with improved battery production and end-of-life management; PHEVs and HEVs act as transitional options shaped by real-world use; and FCEV benefits depend on low-carbon hydrogen. Vehicle-integrated photovoltaics and solar-powered vehicles are promising yet under-studied, with performance tied to local irradiance, design, and grid evolution. Future research suggests harmonized reporting, more regionalized and time-aware modeling, broader probabilistic uncertainty, and comprehensive LCAs of VIPV/SPV and circular pathways to support policy-ready, comparable results.

Keywords: life cycle assessment; electric vehicles; battery EV; hybrid EV; plug-in EV; life cycle inventory; life cycle impact assessment; system boundaries (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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