Electric cars are now central to transport transition strategies worldwide. Often presented as a clean alternative to internal combustion engines, they are heavily promoted by public policies and private investments. However, while electrification represents a significant technological improvement, it cannot alone solve the structural challenges of our mobility system.
The real question is not just how to replace engines, but how to fundamentally transform the way we move.
The real but limited benefits of electric cars
Electric vehicles reduce local air pollution and, in some contexts, lower greenhouse gas emissions over their life cycle. Compared to conventional vehicles, they offer clear environmental advantages, particularly in urban areas.
Yet electric mobility remains dependent on critical raw materials such as lithium and cobalt, and on electricity grids that are still partly fossil-based in many regions. Vehicle production and infrastructure development also generate significant environmental impacts.
A mobility model that remains unchanged
Even when electrified, private cars continue to contribute to congestion, land use pressure and urban sprawl. They reinforce a mobility model based on individual ownership and high resource consumption.
This model is increasingly incompatible with climate, social and spatial constraints. Sustainable mobility cannot be achieved through technological substitution alone without addressing travel demand and usage patterns.
Toward a sustainable mobility approach
Sustainable mobility is built on principles of sobriety, efficiency and modal diversity. It aims to reduce unnecessary travel, promote alternatives to private car use and better organize urban and regional planning.
Public transport, active mobility, shared vehicles and intermodality are central to this transformation. In this context, electric cars still have a role to play, but as one solution among others, adapted to specific and complementary uses.
The key role of public policy and businesses
Public authorities must support this transition by prioritizing investments in public transport, urban planning and territorial organization. Financial incentives should go beyond electric vehicle purchases and focus on reducing the overall mobility footprint.
Businesses also play a strategic role by rethinking commuting, professional travel, remote work and shared mobility solutions. Corporate mobility policies can significantly contribute to a more sustainable system.
Conclusion
Moving from electric cars to sustainable mobility requires a paradigm shift. Electrification is a step forward, but it is not the end goal. True transition lies in reshaping mobility systems around efficiency, equity and long-term resilience.
