Catalytic converters are a necessary part of gasoline-powered vehicles. They aid in the filtering of toxic emissions produced by the vehicle’s internal workings. It accomplishes this by utilizing precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These precious metals are extremely rare and valuable. As a result, the catalytic converter is one of the most valuable components on most vehicles on the road, and not just in terms of money. They are also important for the preservation of our environment and livelihood. Electric vehicles do not operate in the same way as gasoline-powered vehicles. Electric vehicles do not use oil, transmission fluid, or other items that we have grown accustomed to.

Why Catalytic Converters Are Not on EV’s

To begin, it is important to understand that there are fully electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles. As previously stated, a BEV (battery electric vehicle) lacks an internal combustion engine and thus does not require a catalytic converter, which is designed to convert some of the toxic compounds emitted during combustion to breathable air. Although PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) have internal combustion engines, you may be able to avoid using it while commuting. However, once the combustion engine is in operation, the same toxic compounds are emitted, requiring the use of a catalytic converter by law (in all modern countries). The catalytic converters on these hybrids are more valuable than normal fully gasoline powered engine vehicles.

Even though electric vehicles are becoming more popular, there are many factors to consider before deciding whether one is right for you. Yes, you will no longer have to be concerned about your catalytic converter being damaged, needing replacement, or being stolen. However, factors such as limited driving range, access to charging stations, and microchip shortages should be considered. Check out our podcast where we explore whether there will be enough electricity to power all these electric vehicles.