Charging America: car access & incentive in a decarbonized future

Abstract

Throughout the 20th century, the US invested heavily in a national highway network and sprawling communities that prioritize cars over people. Today, as we rush to find solutions to tackle the climate crisis, electric vehicles (EVs) should be a complement to the decarbonization puzzle, not the primary solution. While safer, more equitable modes of decarbonized transportation must be a priority, such modes are not possible everywhere. In these places, EVs may be the best solution for addressing the climate crisis. This thesis analyzes where and how the public and private sectors have developed EV charging stations to date. As the new Biden Administration and the private sector prepare for rapid development of EV infrastructure in the coming decade, understanding current patterns of development can inform future decisions to ensure EV infrastructure is prioritized for areas that lack alternative modes rather than contribute to incentivizing a culture of cars over people.