The answer is often simpler than you think – and it has two wheels and electric assistance: the e-bike.
The car’s CO₂ footprint – underestimated but powerful
On average, a mid-size gasoline-powered car emits around 150 grams of CO₂ per kilometer driven. Calculated over a year—assuming approximately 12,000 kilometers—that's about 1.8 tons of CO₂. By comparison, the total annual CO₂ consumption per person in Germany is about 10 tons. Car traffic alone accounts for around 18% of this.
An e-bike, on the other hand, emits between 6 and 15 grams of CO₂ per kilometer, depending on the electricity mix. The difference is enormous. Even when taking battery production into account, the e-bike remains a lightweight in terms of climate protection.
Why giving up your car is so effective
Many measures for greater climate protection require systemic changes – for example, in industry or energy supply. However, our own transport system is one of the few levers that we can adjust immediately and effectively.
Studies show that those who consistently avoid using their cars can save 1.5 to 2 tons of CO₂ per year. For comparison:
Giving up your car is one of the most effective individual climate protection measures – and also improves air quality in cities, reduces noise and creates space.
With the e-bike, the switch becomes suitable for everyday use
Many people balk at the idea of giving up their car altogether. And that's no surprise: For longer distances, heavy loads, or steep climbs, a bicycle often seems impractical. This is where the e-bike comes in.
What the e-bike can do – and why it changes so much:
✅ Distances of up to 20 km can be easily covered – without breaking a sweat
✅ Slopes or headwinds lose their terror
✅ Shopping, children, or luggage ? No problem with a cargo bike or trailer
✅ Looking for a parking space? It's no longer a problem – or rather, it's much easier.
✅ Low operating costs: Electricity costs of less than 1 € per 100 km
✅ Additional health benefits : Gentle, regular cardiovascular training
How to make your car-free everyday life a success – step by step
1. Plan realistically
The first step is an honest assessment: When do you really need the car? And how often do you drive it out of habit – even though alternatives are possible?
2. Test the e-bike
In many cases, a good e-bike can completely replace a car. Pedelecs with sufficient battery capacity (e.g., 500 Wh or more), sturdy construction, and lighting are ideal. Many cities offer rental systems or subsidies for purchasing them.
3. Think multimodally
Not everyone needs to live completely car-free. The combination of e-bikes, public transport, car sharing, and the occasional rental car often works better than expected.
Practical examples:
4. Equip for everyday use
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Luggage bags or trailers make transport easier
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Weatherproof clothing, helmet and gloves increase comfort and safety
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Navigation via app (e.g. Komoot, Bike Citizens) helps with route planning
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Lighting & Locks: Don't skimp! Safety first
Quality of life instead of sacrifice
Living car-free – for many, that sounds like a restriction. But those who try it often have the opposite experience: more exercise, more fresh air, more time for themselves. Instead of sitting in traffic jams, you roll silently through green avenues, discover new paths, and often arrive at your destination more relaxed.
The switch is also financially worthwhile: Insurance, maintenance, fuel, and taxes – all of these are eliminated with an e-bike. While a high-quality model costs a lot to purchase, it often pays for itself in just two years – especially if you finance it through a company bike lease.
What if I can’t do without a car completely?
Not everyone lives centrally or has good public transport connections. That's no problem. Even those who use their car less often save CO₂ – and money.
Example:
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If you use your car only once a week instead of every day, you can reduce CO₂ emissions by over 80%.
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Even replacing short trips (under 5 km) makes a big difference – and is ideal with an e-bike.
Conclusion: Small decision, big impact
Giving up your car is one of the most effective ways to protect the climate. And with an e-bike, it's not only possible, but often even a real benefit.
You gain quality of life, save money – and actively help to make our cities more livable and the climate more stable.
👉 Your next step
Why not just give it a try?
🚲 Test for a week how many everyday journeys you can do with the e-bike.
Maybe you'll realize afterwards: You need the car much less often than you think.
