Whole-system thinking, development control, key barriers and promotion mechanism for EV development

Guo, Chunlin; Chan, C.C. · 2015 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.1007/s40565-015-0113-3

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Summary

This paper addresses the slow market penetration and development of electric vehicles (EVs) despite significant global investment and policy support. The authors argue that previous research has focused too narrowly on specific technologies or equipment, failing to address the EV ecosystem as a large, complex system. The study posits that successful EV development requires "whole-system thinking" to optimize the interactions between vehicles, charging infrastructure, and the power grid, rather than treating EVs merely as consumers of electricity. The authors analyze the EV operating environment as a system comprising three main parts: the vehicle (battery, motor, etc.), charging infrastructure, and the power grid. They identify three coupling chains—charging/operation, environmental benefits, and economic interests—that dictate system performance. To manage this complexity, the paper proposes a "development control" framework based on cybernetics and system theory. This method utilizes a "target system" approach, combining open-loop planning with closed-loop verification to guide industry construction and infrastructure development. The authors outline specific principles for this control, including step-wise optimization, demand-driven design, and the harmonization of targets across all system links to ensure EVs can compete with mature fuel vehicle systems. The study identifies two critical barriers to EV adoption. Technologically, the primary obstacle is the research and mass production of high-performance power batteries with sufficient energy density, power density, and safety. Systemically, the key barrier is the lack of a favorable mechanism to capture benefits and encourage development, specifically regarding top-level design, business models, and regulatory policies. The authors note that current uncertainties in charging models, fragmented infrastructure, and the difficulty in quantifying environmental benefits hinder the formation of sustainable economic interest chains. To overcome these barriers, the paper proposes a promotion mechanism that combines franchising with moderate competition. It emphasizes that the power grid must serve as a friendly access platform, allowing EVs to act as flexible loads that support grid stability and renewable energy consumption through scheduling. The authors conclude that establishing a harmonious, mutually beneficial relationship between EVs and the power system is essential. By implementing the proposed whole-system thinking and development control methods, stakeholders can create balanced economic interests, reduce uncertainty for participants, and accelerate the large-scale deployment of electric vehicles.

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