Abstract:

This paper assesses how policy shaped the development of electric mobility in three countries, Norway, the Netherlands and Denmark, between 2010 and 2015. This paper gives insights in the interaction effects of instruments on the diffusion of battery electric cars between five policy areas. Based on analysis of synergetic, contradictory and pre-conditional effects, the authors find that an effective policy mix which includes fiscal incentives that mirror the actual carbon footprint of the respective vehicles; non-fiscal demand-side incentives; centrally financed and/or coordinated charging infrastructure; clarity regarding the choice of technology that will be supported. Moreover, development of a domestic, e-mobility-related industry and a high share of renewable energy strengthen the legitimization of e-mobility support. The findings help designing policy mixes in the transition to electric mobility.