🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Chris Paine
- Genre: Documentary
- Release year: 2006
- Runtime (length): 1h 32min
- IMDb rating: 7.6/10 (13K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 89%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
Big Oil, car companies, and a dash of consumer apathy conspire to crush a car that was too good for its own good, ensuring we all stay addicted to gasoline forever (or until Tesla came along).
🍿 Who Killed the Electric Car?: Detailed Plot Synopsis
The Rise of the EV1
The documentary chronicles the emergence of electric vehicles, particularly GM’s EV1, in California during the 1990s. These cars were a response to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, designed to combat air pollution. The EV1 was initially met with enthusiasm from consumers who enjoyed its quiet operation, quick acceleration, and zero tailpipe emissions.
Undermining the Electric Car
Despite its initial success, the film argues that various factors led to the EV1’s demise. Automakers, including GM, are accused of deliberately undermining the electric car by limiting production, restricting availability to lease-only programs, and producing advertisements that downplayed the vehicle’s advantages. Oil companies, fearing a decline in gasoline consumption, are also portrayed as opponents of the EV1.
The Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate
The documentary explores the political battles surrounding the CARB’s ZEV mandate. Automakers and oil companies lobbied against the mandate, arguing that electric vehicles were not commercially viable and that hydrogen fuel cell technology was a better long-term solution. The CARB eventually weakened the ZEV mandate, which allowed automakers to scale back their electric vehicle programs.
⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Martin Sheen (Martin Sheen): As the narrator, Sheen guides the audience through the investigation into the electric car’s demise.
- Chris Paine (Chris Paine): The writer and director who investigates the forces behind the suppression of electric vehicle technology.
- Alan Lloyd (Alan Lloyd): As chairman of CARB, Lloyd is scrutinized for his role in weakening the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate.
- Roger Smith (N/A): The CEO of General Motors who initially championed the electric car project, but whose company later reversed course.
- Chelsea Sexton (N/A): A passionate EV advocate and former GM employee, she fights to save the electric car from being eliminated.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Mel Gibson: “Who writes the history? Um, well… The guy with the biggest club.” – Gibson reflects on the power dynamics influencing the narrative around the electric car’s fate.
- Narrator (Martin Sheen): “In 1996, electric cars began to appear on roads all over California. They were quiet and fast, produced no exhaust and ran without gasoline… Ten years later, these futuristic cars were almost completely gone.” – The opening narration sets the stage for the central mystery of the documentary.
- Chelsea Sexton: “We were told there was no demand. That people didn’t want these cars. But we *were* the demand.” – A passionate EV1 advocate refutes the auto industry’s claim that there was no market for electric vehicles.
- Alan Cocconi: “It’s not that they didn’t want to make a good car, but they were making money with the gasoline cars.” – One of the EV1 engineers explains the conflict of interest that automakers faced.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $1,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $1,678,874
- Worldwide Gross: $1,764,304
💥 Who Killed the Electric Car? Reviews
Personal Review
I was so mad after watching this film! It really made me question everything I thought I knew about the auto industry and their commitment to green energy. Seeing those EV1s being crushed was heartbreaking, especially knowing how much the drivers loved them. It’s a total wake-up call and has made me seriously consider switching to electric for my next car.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Environmental activists”
- “Automotive enthusiasts”
- “People interested in sustainable technology”
- “Documentary film buffs”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Political themes”
- “Corporate malfeasance”
- “Some mild language”
Professional Reviews
- Indiewire: “A compelling and infuriating look at the forces that conspired to kill the electric car, highlighting the importance of consumer choice and sustainable energy solutions. The film’s engaging narrative and insightful interviews leave a lasting impression.
- The Hollywood Reporter: “This documentary exposes the corruption and short-sightedness that led to the demise of the electric car, making a strong case for renewable energy and corporate accountability. It’s an important film that challenges viewers to question the status quo.
Audience Reactions
Viewers appreciated the documentary’s investigative approach and its exposé of corporate influence.: The film’s comprehensive analysis and emotional storytelling resonated with audiences, sparking conversations about energy policy and environmental responsibility.
Overall Consensus: A well-researched and emotionally engaging documentary that uncovers the complex web of factors behind the electric car’s disappearance, prompting viewers to reconsider our energy future.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “The director, Chris Paine, was himself an EV1 driver, which fueled his passion for making the documentary.”
- “The film includes footage of the actual crushing of the EV1s, which was a highly emotional event for many EV1 drivers and enthusiasts.”
- “Several celebrities, including Mel Gibson and Tom Hanks, appear in the documentary as they were early adopters and proponents of electric vehicles.”
🖥️ How to Watch Who Killed the Electric Car??
As a documentary, ‘Who Killed the Electric Car?’ isn’t widely available on mainstream streaming services with subscription models like Netflix or Hulu. However, you can often find it available for rent or purchase on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and YouTube Movies. Check your preferred digital retailer for current availability and pricing.
🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Who Killed the Electric Car?, you might like these similar films:
- An Inconvenient Truth (2006): Both films address the urgent need for environmental awareness and action regarding climate change.
- Gasland (2010): Investigates the environmental and economic consequences of natural gas drilling, similar to how ‘Who Killed the Electric Car?’ explores the impact of the auto industry.
- The China Syndrome (1979): A film highlighting the dangers and cover-ups associated with the energy industry
- Revenge of the Electric Car (2011): A spiritual successor, this documentary follows the resurgence of electric cars after the events of ‘Who Killed the Electric Car?’
🛒 Who Killed the Electric Car? Related Products
- An Inconvenient Truth (DVD): Companion documentary exploring the science and impact of global warming, deepening the understanding of environmental issues discussed in ‘Who Killed the Electric Car?’.
- The Tesla Model S Diecast Car: A meticulously crafted diecast model of the iconic Tesla Model S, representing the resurgence of electric vehicles and the future of sustainable transportation. A great collectible for movie fans.
- Charging Station Model Accessory: Miniature charging station accessory that serves as both a decorative piece and a conversation starter, prompting discussions about electric vehicle infrastructure and sustainability. Ideal for desks and display cases.
- Electric Vehicle Revolution T-Shirt: High-quality t-shirt featuring a vintage-style graphic promoting electric vehicles and renewable energy. A comfortable and stylish way to show your support for a cleaner future and the EV movement.
🎧 Soundtrack
Who Killed the Electric Car? features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
GM claimed that the EV1 was not commercially viable and that there was no consumer demand for electric cars. However, the documentary argues that GM deliberately suppressed demand for the EV1 and that the company crushed the cars to avoid having to comply with stricter emissions regulations.
While the EV1 is the most prominent example, other automakers also discontinued and destroyed electric vehicles in the early 2000s. This was due to a combination of factors, including lobbying efforts by oil companies and automakers, changes in government regulations, and the promotion of hydrogen fuel cell technology as an alternative.
Many EV1 lessees were devastated when GM took back and crushed their cars. Some of these lessees became vocal advocates for electric vehicles and continue to promote sustainable transportation solutions.
🔥 Bonus Content
“Who Killed The Electric Car” Cut to 6 mins By: Steve Todey
Want the gist of ‘Who Killed the Electric Car?’ but short on time? This 6-minute cut gets right to the point. Honestly, it’s a great way to quickly understand the core issue and see if you want to dive deeper!
Who killed the Electric car – the Awesome story of how the electric dream died
Curious about the real history behind electric cars and how it connects to the film? Bob Flavin breaks it down in this awesome review, highlighting some mind-blowing facts that definitely made me think differently about the whole situation!
A Brief History of the Electric Car
Ever wonder about the *actual* history of electric cars? This quick explainer video gives you the key facts. It directly references ‘Who Killed the Electric Car?’ too, making it a perfect companion piece to understand the context!
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