Problem: In addition to their environmental impact, EVs are much more expensive than traditional cars, they are ill-suited for those who live in rural areas, and they are often produced in working environments that provide little protection for the employees.
Conway presents us with an interesting ethical dilemma: should we adopt EVs to help reduce emissions in the atmosphere now, or are we better off improving the fuel efficiency of vehicles that use conventional combustion engines until EVs can be perfected? There are no easy answers.
As you compose your initial response for this week's discussion, consider the following questions:
Both electric vehicles and gas-powered vehicles have environmental impacts. Overall, are electric vehicles in their current state environmentally friendly enough to justify their widespread adoption?
Currently, the US federal government offers incentives in the form of rebates to encourage people to purchase EVs. Even after these rebates, however, the vehicles are still quite expensive. Some would say that these rebates primarily benefit the wealthy. Should the government continue to offer these rebates?
Are there better ways to promote environmentally sustainable transportation than electric vehicles, such as improved mass transit options, dedicated bike lanes, and so on?
Consider the technology you have chosen for your course project. Is its impact on the environment generally positive, negative, or neutral? Does your selected technology promote greater equity in society? Are there any groups who benefit from it, or are harmed by it, more than others?