Assessing levels of urban public electric vehicle charging service in different-level cities: A case study of the 35 cities of the Chengdu–Chongqing Urban Agglomeration, China

Abstract

Urban Public Electric Vehicle Charger (PEVC) services are crucial for sustainable development in countries with low rates of single-family home ownership, promoting vehicle electrification and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). PEVC provision differs across Chinese regions and cities, especially among various city levels. However, this disparity has not been adequately addressed, impeding strategic PEVC development planning. To clarify these disparities, this study combines an analysis of the supply-demand and usage costs of PEVCs, which are the main factors affecting vehicle electrification, and evaluates the disparities in PEVC service among 35 cities of varying levels in Chengdu–Chongqing Urban Agglomeration. The results indicate that mega-cities demonstrate the highest service levels, attributed to their robust supply capacity and well-developed pricing mechanisms, but they also face higher actual demand pressures. Medium-sized and small cities show intermediate PEVC service, while large cities unexpectedly demonstrate the lowest supply-demand level and highest usage costs due to the mismatch between PEVC supply and demand size. Additionally, the study highlights the priority of PEVC station scale in enhancing the supply. These findings inform policymakers in shaping targeted strategies and policies, adapting to the varying PEVC service levels across different cities.