Electric vehicles and the future of personal transportation

Paulina Jaramillo

Chapter 22 in Handbook of Energy Innovation, 2026, pp 411-444 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: For over 150 years, internal combustion engines have powered automobiles, granting greater personal freedom and expanded access to employment and essential services. However, the widespread adoption of internal combustion vehicles has led to significant environmental harm, notably contributing to climate change. Indeed, road-based vehicles powered by internal combustion engines account for 65 percent of emissions from the global transportation sector. Mitigating these emissions is crucial for reaching climate stabilization goals, and vehicle electrification is the most promising strategy for decarbonizing road-based transportation. This chapter provides an overview of the history of electric vehicles (EVs), their technologies, and the infrastructure requirements necessary for widespread adoption. It also examines the material requirements and supply chain issues of vehicle electrification alongside recent trends in technology developments and EV adoption. Additionally, the chapter discusses public policies implemented worldwide to support the transition to vehicle electrification. Since the 1990s, battery technologies have seen substantial advancements, with promising innovations on the horizon. The global EV market has experienced significant growth, driven by declining prices and supportive policies. However, large-scale electrification of personal transportation requires continuous innovations in battery technologies, smart charging solutions, and expanded battery recycling capabilities. These innovations could mitigate environmental impacts, enhance resource sustainability, and pave the way for a more seamless integration of EVs into the global transportation landscape.

Keywords: Vehicle Electrification; Battery Technology; Climate Change Mitigation; Sustainable Infrastructure; Supply Chain Sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035310401
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