This video explores the history of modern electric cars, tracing their development from the 1970s to the present day. It covers key milestones, technological advancements, and the resurgence of interest in electric vehicles. The video also highlights the impact of electric cars on the automotive industry and the environment.
During the energy crisis in the 1970s, a barrel of oil that cost $3 spiked to $15. Not only did gasoline become scarce and expensive, but there were long lines at pumps across the country. In response, many US automakers introduced electric models. In 1976, the Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Research, Development, and Demonstration Act was passed, offering carmakers incentives to build green cars. The list of would-be electric car companies was long, but the technology wasn't where it needed to be yet. In the 1980s, the lithium-ion battery was invented. This battery technology is at the center of today's long-distance, powerful electric cars. As the fuel crisis waned, governments became more interested in curbing air pollution due to the discovery of a hole in the ozone layer. New federal and state regulations began to change in the U.S. The Clean Air Act Amendment of 1990 and the Energy Policy Act of 1992 helped create interest in renewable energy and reducing emissions. This started the push to eliminate the use of fossil fuel vehicles and prompted the development of zero-emission vehicles. Ford, Honda, Nissan, Chrysler, and GM all developed zero-emission cars. Tesla Motors started in 2003. Tesla's first EV was the Roadster. The two-door sports car was one of the first electric cars with a lithium-ion battery pack. The Nissan LEAF was the first modern, mass-market, all-electric vehicle. In 2020, Tesla surpassed 1 million electric cars produced, and it is still the best-selling electric brand. Thanks for watching. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to get recommendations for other useful content on green cars and how they can work best for you.