Electric vehicle fleet penetration helps address inequalities in air quality and improves environmental justice

This study evaluated six 2040 electric vehicle (EV) penetration scenarios in Southern California to quantify the reduction in nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations, particularly for environmental justice (EJ) communities near Interstate 710. Aggressive EV penetration (85% EV share) reduced NO2 and PM2.5 concentrations more in communities with more people of color (POC) than in communities with more White residents. The aggressive penetration reduced pollution exposure disparity by 30% for NO2 and 14% for PM2.5. Results suggest policies encouraging accelerated EV penetration will address air pollution inequalities and improve environmental justice.

Shih Ying Chang, Jiaoyan Huang, Melissa R. Chaveste, Frederick W. Lurmann, Douglas S. Eisinger, Anondo D. Mukherjee, Garnet B. Erdakos, Marcus Alexander, Eladio Knipping