List of Policy Briefs and Literature Reviews
Supply-side challenges and research needs on the road to 100% zero-emissions vehicle sales
January 2025
This review examines supply-side challenges in achieving 100% zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption, focusing on battery production, vehicle manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and supporting policies. It highlights the environmental and labor impacts of lithium and vehicle production, the complexities of charging deployment, and the need for robust, effective policies to enable a sustainable ZEV transition.
Demand-side challenges and research needs on the road to 100% zero-emission vehicle sales
January 2025
This review explores demand-side challenges to achieving 100% zero-emissions vehicle sales, focusing on consumer behavior, policy incentives, infrastructure, and energy prices. It finds that while global PEV sales are rising, adoption gaps persist among certain demographics, resistant drivers, and lower-income buyers, highlighting the need for more inclusive and effective demand-side strategies.
Supporting Plug-in Electric Vehicle Adoption in Light-duty Fleets
June 2022
Many fleets have begun the process of electrification, however, there are still challenges that fleets face. The interaction between fleet managers and fleet vehicle drivers is unique to fleets and influences the types of vehicles that fleets purchase. The uptake of electric vehicles can contribute to reducing emissions and energy consumption, and has secondary benefits.
Exploring the Role of Cities in Electrifying Passenger Transportation
January 2020
Cities can boost electric vehicle adoption through incentives, access restrictions, and strategic charging infrastructure, while educating residents about PEVs. Integrating these measures into urban planning ensures maximum electrification benefits and minimizes unintended increases in private vehicle use.
Exploring the Role of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles in Electrifying Passenger Transportation
April 2019
Long-range PHEVs serve as both transitional and enabling technologies, helping households electrify significant portions of their travel while appealing to consumers who may not choose BEVs due to range, vehicle needs, or household structure.
Driving the Market for Plug-in Vehicles: Understanding ZEV Mandates
August 2018
This policy brief reviews evidence on zero emission vehicle mandates, showing that such regulations can stimulate automaker innovation, increase ZEV availability, and support long-term greenhouse gas and emissions reductions.
Impact of reoccurring and non-financial incentives on plug-in electric vehicle adoption
March 2018
UC Davis researchers examine how recurring and non-financial incentives such as lane access, parking benefits, charging infrastructure, and toll or licensing adjustments influence plug-in electric vehicle adoption across regions. Findings show these incentives generally support PEV uptake, but their effectiveness depends on local travel patterns, regulatory contexts, and consumer preferences.
Policy Brief Literature Review
Increasing Consumer Awareness and Knowledge about Plug-In Vehicles
March 2018
This policy guide reviews evidence showing that low consumer awareness and understanding of plug-in electric vehicles remains a major barrier to market growth. It outlines strategies such as education campaigns, ride and drive events, dealer training, and public-private partnerships that can effectively increase knowledge and support broader PEV adoption.
Developing PEV Charging Infrastructure
October 2017
Effective adoption of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) depends on accessible, reliable, and appropriately leveled charging infrastructure at home, work, public locations, and travel corridors, supported by standardized payment, pricing strategies, and smart charging to manage grid demand.
Policy Brief Literature Review
The Effectiveness of Financial Purchase Incentives for Battery Electric Vehicles
September 2017
This policy brief and literature review shows that financial incentives play a key role in increasing electric vehicle adoption, especially when delivered upfront through grants or tax exemptions. It also outlines how targeted incentive design and improved consumer awareness can further strengthen their effectiveness.