Exploring the pathways for system innovation of EVs in China-from the multi-level perspective

Electric Vehicles (EVs) have the potential to solve the problems associated with the use of internal combustion engines (ICEs), such as air pollution and security of energy supply. This paper addresses the question about how EVs in China can achieve system innovation. Recognizing that the system innovation of EVs is essentially a transition involving co-evolution of many elements including technology and society, this paper adopts multilevel perspective (MLP). The drivers and barriers for the system innovation of EVs in China are identified. Based on the analysis combined with the theories on social-technical pathways, this paper describes the possible ways that transition to EVs may take place from the short-term, medium-term and long-term perspectives.