Abstract:

This study analyzes emerging light-duty electric vehicle technologies in terms of their performance characteristics and costs. The authors assess the key technology trends in electric vehicle attributes, such as electric range and battery cost, which are widely expected to impact the broader consumer attractiveness of electric vehicles. The scope of the work includes an analysis of the specifications of major electric vehicle models in China, Europe, Japan, and the United States through 2015. An analysis of evolving battery costs beyond 2020 is presented. This analysis is based on a synthesis of public data from energy laboratories, academic research literature, and supplier and automobile company announcements. Based on the analysis, the three key conclusions are: (1) Increased diversity of electric vehicle models is creating more alternatives across all market segments. (2) Electric vehicles with increased electric range are entering the market from 2016-2018. (3) Companies are making the move to higher production and lower cost.