Summary
- Volkswagen is leading the way on EVs among legacy automakers from the West
- They are procuring a lot of green electricity for charging their EVs
- Volkswagen is supporting wind power projects, including the Djupdal wind farm in Sweden
- They plan to step up their commitment to renewable energy in the future
- Volkswagen’s EV models are greener than conventional diesel vehicles after a certain number of kilometers driven
Article
Volkswagen is making significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market by leading the way among legacy automakers from the West. The company is focused on being environmentally conscious by powering most of its EVs with green renewable electricity. Through various green power projects, Volkswagen aims to deliver approximately 1.1 terawatt-hours of electricity in 2024, supporting the large-scale expansion of renewable energies in Europe. The automaker is involved in 26 green power projects across nine European countries, with a positive impact on decarbonization.
One of Volkswagen’s key initiatives is supporting wind power projects, such as the Djupdal wind farm in Sweden, which generates about 1,000 GWh (1 TWh) of electricity per year. The company plans to further enhance its commitment to renewable energies in line with the development of its ID. models. By developing European wind and solar farms, Volkswagen aims to assist customers in using their ID. vehicles in a net carbon-neutral way, showcasing a commitment to sustainability beyond just electrifying vehicles. Through these efforts, Volkswagen is making significant contributions to the decarbonization of the automotive industry.
Using a life cycle analysis, Volkswagen has demonstrated that its EV models are greener than conventional diesel vehicles after a certain number of kilometers driven, particularly when charged with clean electricity. The company’s ID.4 Pro causes about 25% lower CO2 emissions over its life cycle compared to a diesel model, with even lower emissions when consistently charged using the EU green electricity grid mix. This analysis highlights the positive environmental impact of Volkswagen’s EVs and their potential to reduce carbon footprints over time.
Volkswagen offers drivers access to 100% renewable electricity through the IONITY superfast charging network across Europe. Additionally, the Volkswagen charging brand Elli provides the Volkswagen Naturstrom Flex option, a renewable energy product for home charging. The company is actively supporting solar and wind projects in various countries, including Portugal, Sweden, Spain, Finland, and more. By acquiring Energy Attribute Certificates and supporting green power projects, Volkswagen aims to shift towards carbon-neutral energy sources and drive the decarbonization of mobility.
While Volkswagen may have faced criticism for not matching the technological advancements of competitors like Tesla and Chinese automakers, the company’s commitment to EVs and renewable electricity is commendable. Through its green power projects and initiatives to support renewable energies, Volkswagen is paving the way for a more sustainable future in the automotive industry. By integrating clean electricity into its charging infrastructure and operations, Volkswagen is taking significant steps towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental stewardship.
Overall, Volkswagen’s focus on renewable electricity for its EVs underscores the company’s dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By leading the way among legacy automakers in the West and supporting various green power projects, Volkswagen is making a tangible impact on decarbonization efforts in the automotive sector. With plans to expand its commitment to renewable energies in the coming years, Volkswagen is demonstrating a holistic approach to sustainability that extends beyond just vehicle electrification.
Read the full article here