Carros elétricos e meio ambiente: uma análise do ciclo de vida da bateria dos carros elétricos e seu impacto ambiental

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions has driven the adoption of electrified vehicles as an alternative to conventional vehicles. However, the actual extent of their environmental impacts remains under discussion, and identifying these impacts requires an integrated analysis of the entire life cycle of the batteries used. This study aimed to assess the environmental impacts associated with lithium-ion batteries of the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) type, using an interpretive Life Cycle Analysis approach that considers all stages, from raw material extraction to battery disposal. Based on collected data, the research examined the influence of Brazil’s energy matrix on CO2 emissions during the battery use phase, linking the findings to sustainability goals outlined by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement. To achieve these objectives, a bibliographic and interpretive analysis was conducted using international inventory data, which were adapted to the national context, focusing on a 38 kWh LFP battery. The SIPOC methodology was applied to map production processes and identify key environmental impact points, with emphasis on lithium-containing components. The results revealed that the lithium extraction and cathode manufacturing stages are responsible for most reenhouse gas emissions, due to high energy consumption and the use of solvents and chemical reagents. However, it was observed that, given Brazil’s energy matrix is largely composed of renewable sources, emissions during the battery use phase are significantly lower compared to global scenarios that rely on fossil-based energy. Therefore, it is concluded that electric vehicles equipped with LFP batteries show increasing environmental viability in the Brazilian context. Nonetheless, this potential depends on the advancement of public policies that promote material recycling, modernization of production processes, and strengthening of renewable energy sources. The findings demonstrate that the sustainability of these vehicles relies not only on the technology itself, but on the integration of the entire production chain, efficient energy management, and commitment to global climate goals.