The Surprisingly Long History of Electric Cars
Provided by: TED-Ed|Published on: April 27, 2021
Grades: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Type: Videos
Subjects: History, Engineering
Authors: Daniel Sperling, Gil Tal
Region: Global
Languages: English
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This animated video from TED-Ed outlines the history of cars, from the invention of battery-powered electric vehicles in the early 20th century to the current surge in the popularity of electric cars.
- Students will learn that electric cars are becoming less expensive and more efficient.
- This resource includes comprehension questions, links to additional resources, and a guided discussion board.
Teaching Materials
Positives
- Students, especially car-enthusiasts, will enjoy this engaging video.
- The video does a good job of explaining the historical context behind developments in the auto industry.
Prerequisites
- Teachers and students must create a free account to use the "Think" and "Discuss" features.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Math and economics classes can calculate the average price difference between gasoline-powered cars and electric cars over a 5-year period and 10-year period. Students should consider the purchase price and the cost of fuel and maintenance.
- Civics and government classes can discuss the impact of policies such as California's Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate and Europe's Emissions Standards on the electric car industry.
- Economics classes can discuss the cost of electric cars and economic incentives for or barriers to investing in one.
In the 1800s, several different people around the world began experimenting with batteries and electric motors, eventually developing the first electric cars. Now, almost 200 years later, electric cars are poised to become the dominant car on the road. This resource offers a quick history of electric vehicles. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
