February 26, 2024
Conventional cars with internal combustion engines (ICEs) use the least amount of copper compared to all electric vehicle (EV) types at under 25 kg/vehicle.
Every type of EV significantly amplifies the demand for copper compared to conventional vehicles with internal combustion engines. The copper requirements (kg/vehicle) for each EV category are:
Conventional internal combustion engine: 23 kg.
Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV): 40 kg.
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV): 60 kg.
Battery electric vehicle (BEV): 83 kg.
Hybrid electric bus (Ebus HEV): 89 kg.
Battery-powered electric bus (Ebus BEV): 224–369 kg (depending on battery size).
As newer EV’s transition towards all-electric (BEVs) type vehicles, the amount of copper required for each increases significantly. This will certainly put a strain on the long-term supply of copper as more and more BEVs are produced.
Sources: Incorrys, Copper Development Association Inc., and International Copper Association