# [New EV vs. old beater: Which is better for the environment?](https://arstechnica.com/cars/2022/04/new-ev-vs-old-beater-which-is-better-for-the-environment/)

TL;DR:

* If you are buying a new car anyway the EV will be better than an ICE car in about a year.

* If you have an ICE car now, buying a new EV will save on carbon output after about 2 years

So, your next car should be an EV, and if you want to get a new EV to replace your old ICE car you will not be adding carbon because of the manufacturing assuming you keep a car for 3+ years. (And of course if you are a new-car-every-3-years person then make your next car and EV)