The recent SWR article analyses when switching to an electric car (EV) is financially, practically, and socially worthwhile, using data-driven tools from the SWR Data Lab.
Dr. Hedi Kriit, postdoctoral researcher at Heidelberg University (Hei-Planet), has contributed her scientific expertise to the article, drawing on her research into the health impacts of traffic-related air pollution and noise.
A key contribution from Dr. Kriit, highlights the significant health risks associated with traffic noise. She explains that even constant exposure to noise levels above 55 decibels—roughly equivalent to a radio at normal room volume—can be harmful.
“Traffic noise is linked to ischemic heart disease, sleep disorders, cognitive impairment, hearing damage, and tinnitus,” she notes. Currently, one in four people in Germany lives in areas where recommended noise limits are exceeded.
Given this widespread exposure, the quieter operation of electric vehicles offers a meaningful public health advantage by helping to reduce traffic-related noise pollution.
Article Summary:
Cost-effectiveness of electric vehicles depends on individual factors such as annual mileage, electricity prices, charging options, vehicle class, and purchase price, which can be compared using interactive calculators. While EVs usually cost more upfront—mainly due to battery costs and limited economies of scale—their lower energy and maintenance expenses often make them cheaper than petrol or diesel cars after about 6–7 years, sometimes sooner for larger vehicles. Future subsidies planned for 2026 could cut purchase prices significantly. Modern EVs offer sufficient range and charging infrastructure is widely available, especially in Germany. Beyond costs, EVs bring clear health and environmental benefits.
Read full article here: https://www.swr.de/swraktuell/auto-kosten-rechner-100.html
Watch the documentary: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/swr-wissen/e-auto-jetzt-der-check-tankst-du-noch-oder-laedst-du-schon/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS9hZXgvbzIyODUzMjk
