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Can innovative business models overcome resistance to electric vehicles? Better Place and battery electric cars in Denmark

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  • Budde Christensen, Thomas
  • Wells, Peter
  • Cipcigan, Liana

Abstract

This paper explores the geographical and policy context for an emergent business model from Better Place to deliver battery electric car mobility in Denmark. It argues that the combination of radically different technologies and a highly complex multi-agency operating environment theoretically provide the conditions and requirements for such an emergent business model. While focused on battery electric cars, renewable energy generation and smart grids, the paper has wider applicability to an understanding of the interplay between place, innovation and sustainability which suggests that diverse solutions are likely to be the characteristic solution rather than ubiquity and standardization. The paper argues, however, that the innovative business model, the deployment of electric vehicles, and the use of renewable energy systems, in this case largely based on wind power, while mutually supportive and contributing to wider policy aims with respect to the reduction of carbon emissions, may still fail in the face of entrenched practices. At the theoretical level it is concluded that theorization of business models needs a broader perspective beyond the typical ‘value creation, value capture’ rubric to better understand the wider role such models have in meeting societal goals, and to understand the structural impediments to organizational and technical innovation.

Suggested Citation

  • Budde Christensen, Thomas & Wells, Peter & Cipcigan, Liana, 2012. "Can innovative business models overcome resistance to electric vehicles? Better Place and battery electric cars in Denmark," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 48(C), pages 498-505.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:enepol:v:48:y:2012:i:c:p:498-505
    DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2012.05.054
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Andersen, Poul H. & Mathews, John A. & Rask, Morten, 2009. "Integrating private transport into renewable energy policy: The strategy of creating intelligent recharging grids for electric vehicles," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 37(7), pages 2481-2486, July.
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    7. Peter E. Wells, 2010. "The Automotive Industry in an Era of Eco-Austerity," Books, Edward Elgar Publishing, number 13835.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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