Deciphering the accelerated expansion of China’s NEV sector post-2020: a cross-system analysis using multi-level perspective

Abstract This article investigates the rapid expansion of China’s new energy vehicle market in the challenging context of global economic uncertainties and the pandemic, highlighting its significant growth since 2020. By delving deeper into the sectoral and geographical scope of the multi-level perspective concept, this study explores the interactions among various sociotechnical systems that have accelerated the development of China’s automotive electrification. The research offers a deep dive into the factors driving this sector’s growth using a mixed-methods approach, including participatory observation, expert interviews, and secondary data analysis. The findings provide a detailed examination of the NEV market’s evolution and offer a methodological blueprint for analysing the intricate progression of automotive electrification in China, serving as a resource for policymakers and industry stakeholders. This work enhances the discourse on sociotechnical transitions, equipping decision makers with critical insights for steering the industry’s future direction.