Who Killed the Electric Car?

Who Killed the Electric Car investigates the rise and fall of the General Motors EV1, a pioneering battery electric vehicle. Initially introduced in response to California’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate in the 1990s, the EV1 was a groundbreaking car that ran entirely on electricity, producing zero emissions. Despite its technological advancements and the enthusiasm of its drivers, the EV1 faced an untimely demise when General Motors decided to recall and destroy the vehicles. This decision sparked controversy and led to questions about the forces behind the electric car’s downfall.

The documentary delves into various factors that contributed to the EV1’s destruction, highlighting multiple suspects involved in this complex narrative. It scrutinizes the roles of automobile manufacturers, particularly General Motors, which cited a lack of consumer demand due to the car’s limited range and high costs. However, critics argue that these claims were exaggerated and that mass production could have reduced costs significantly. The oil industry also emerges as a significant player, with concerns over losing its monopoly on transportation fuels potentially motivating efforts to stifle electric vehicle development.

Political influences are also examined, including pressure from the federal government and legal challenges from automakers and oil companies that led to the reversal of California’s ZEV mandate. The documentary features interviews with key figures such as engineers, environmentalists, and industry experts who provide insights into the motives behind these actions. It also touches on alternative automotive technologies, offering a critical view of hydrogen fuel cells while discussing the potential of plug-in hybrid vehicles.