In an article for Nature Electronics, a team of researchers from Newcastle discusses the crucial factors by which large cities influence the development of electric vehicles.
In a published article today, the authors emphasize the need for local policies to encourage and stimulate the adoption of electric vehicles.
Led by Dr. Oliver Haydrich from Newcastle University, the authors outline a series of steps that cities can take to support the introduction of electric vehicles, including examples and the use of fiscal mechanisms. The team also examines factors affecting the electric revolution, including situational and contextual factors, as well as barriers and incentives.
The lead author, Dr. Oliver Haydrich from the School of Engineering at Newcastle University, stated, “One reason why investors, manufacturers, and consumers are wary of the mass adoption of electric vehicles is the uncertainty regarding policy direction and, most importantly, timelines. However, it is clear that electric vehicles will soon replace gasoline and diesel cars; it is unclear how this should happen and who will take the initiative to address these uncertainties.”
The article highlights the key influence of local, regional, and national authorities in promoting the use of electric vehicles. Cities worldwide can leverage tools under their control, such as road access rights, parking fees, and land use policies, to influence consumer behavior. The authors also note that cities’ own vehicle fleets and procurement systems could facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles.
In addition to strengthening their leadership position, cities could utilize their financial powers alongside national funding to lease or purchase electric vehicles. The authors argue that mass adoption in cities will help dispel the notion that electric vehicles are only for affluent consumers. Other areas that could benefit from funding include electric bus fleets and investments in bus electrification, as well as corporate fleets.
In the article, Dr. Haydrich and his colleagues focus on key situational and contextual factors underlying the introduction of electric vehicles in cities.
Geography is one of the primary situational factors discussed by the authors. Population density, socio-economic conditions, as well as the quality and availability of alternative transport, are situational factors. Each city faces a unique set of situational factors and must formulate its approach to support the introduction of electric vehicles, such as providing charging stations in densely populated areas, investing in intercity public infrastructure, supporting home charging infrastructure, or a combination of all three options.
The authors analyze how contextual factors play a significant role in explaining, educating, and stimulating the use of electric vehicles in cities. This could be achieved through relatively simple measures, such as providing access to priority lanes, free parking, or tax incentives. The article discusses key barriers hindering the expansion of electric vehicle usage. The authors argue that overcoming these barriers requires a balance between increasing demand, such as costs, and technological and governmental measures, such as banning internal combustion engines.
Regardless of the outcome of achieving the listed measures, it is evident that combinations and well-thought-out local, regional, national, and even international strategies are necessary for the adoption of electric vehicles to reduce atmospheric emissions. It is clear that cities can and should contribute to these urgently needed changes.