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Do electric cars have catalytic converters?

I have heard EVs referred to as “Zero Emission Vehicles.” Do electric cars have catalytic converters?

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Alex Healey · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Great question! The short answer is no, electric cars do not have catalytic converters.
The slightly longer answer:
  • A catalytic converter turns the toxic pollutants from internal combustion engines (the type used in traditional gas-powered cars) into water and less harmful gases.
  • Battery-powered electric cars do not release exhaust fumes, so there is no need for the filtering process provided by a catalytic converter.
Despite this, some critics say the “Zero Emissions” moniker given to electric cars is a bit misleading.
After all, EV manufacturers create plenty of CO2 during production, and their cars are reliant on the electrical grid for charging, only about 20% of which comes from renewable energy.
The good news is electric cars are responsible for far fewer emissions than their gas-powered counterparts, and electricity generation is getting greener with each passing year.
Whether or not you have joined the electrical revolution, get the
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