Achieving 2050 Decarbonisation Target of the Automotive Industry in Europe: A Multi-Level Analysis

Year 2017, Volume: 1 Issue: 2, 5 - 13, 11.12.2017

Fatih M. Özel

Abstract

The European Union (EU) aims
to reduce overall CO₂ emissions at least 80% by 2050. For road
transport, this involves at least a 95% reduction target for 2050, compared to
1990 levels. Most commentators argue that achieving this target requires a
transition from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) to battery electric
vehicles (BEVs). Nevertheless, this entails substantial changes in the
automotive value chain, which will not be motivated by single factors. To
support the automotive sector responding the aforementioned target, the factors
limiting the new technology in the sector was analyzed and challenged by
applying the socio-technical transition theory to the automotive system and
examining the existing requirements of critical actors. It was found that a
technical change might be possible with an industrial structure favoring the
production and consumption of BEVs. However, to achieve that, BEV technologies
that are developed in niches by established companies and new entrants need to
be further developed and prescriptive policy instruments need to be implemented
in a timely manner. Some helpful strategies were also identified and discussed
for satisfying the needs of governments, carmakers and small and medium sized
enterprises. 

Keywords

European automotive sector, 2050 CO2 target, socio-technical transitions, battery electric vehicle, sustainable mobility

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