A Sociotechnical Transition to an Electric Autonomous Vehicle System

Enjavi, Seyedamirreza; Elahi, Shaban; Shayan, Ali; Mousavi, Seyedesmaeil · 2024 · DOAJ

DOI: 10.22034/jipm.2024.711529

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Summary

This paper addresses the challenge of transitioning from unsustainable, fossil-fuel-based transportation systems to a sustainable sociotechnical system centered on electric autonomous vehicles (AVs). Motivated by the environmental harm, energy waste, and social limitations associated with conventional vehicles, the authors investigate the specific state policies and governance measures required to facilitate this transformation. The research is grounded in the theory of Transformational Change, which posits that states must act as facilitators to overcome industry lock-in and promote technologies that enhance public welfare, accessibility, and sustainability. The study employs a mixed-methods approach consisting of meta-synthesis, case studies, and expert interviews. The meta-synthesis involved a systematic review of literature from the Web of Science database, focusing on Q1 journal articles published from 2017 onwards. The authors applied strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify studies addressing state policy measures for AVs, ultimately selecting 19 relevant papers for deep analysis. To empirically validate the findings from the meta-synthesis, the researchers conducted case studies and interviews with experts in the electric AV field. Policies were prioritized based on expert consensus, with those receiving over 75% of the total expert score identified as key recommendations. The findings identify the state’s role as critical in shaping the transition through regulatory power, infrastructure planning, and innovation policy. The analysis highlights that successful transition requires a combination of policies targeting both industry and society. Key measures include establishing new driving zone classifications, installing modern physical traffic signs, and making long-term investments in transport infrastructure. The study also emphasizes the importance of public acceptance, noting that policies must address societal concerns regarding safety, privacy, and liability. The meta-synthesis revealed that while technical advancements are rapid, the trajectory of the new sociotechnical system depends heavily on how states manage the diffusion of innovation and foster public trust through inclusive governance and pilot projects. The significance of this research lies in its provision of a structured framework for policymakers aiming to implement transformative innovation policies. By synthesizing empirical evidence and expert opinion, the paper offers actionable insights into how states can effectively champion the diffusion of electric AVs. It underscores that technological transition is not merely an engineering challenge but a sociotechnical one requiring coordinated legal, policy, and governance interventions. The conclusions suggest that states must move beyond passive regulation to actively facilitate the shift toward sustainable mobility, ensuring that the benefits of electric AVs—such as increased independence for disabled individuals and reduced emissions—are realized while mitigating risks associated with market failure and public resistance.

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