Influence of new energy vehicle subsidy policy on emission reduction of atmospheric pollutants: A case study of Beijing, China

Abstract

New energy vehicles (NEVs) have great potential to reduce emissions containing atmospheric pollutants. The Chinese Government has implemented a series of subsidy policies to promote NEVs and replace traditional fuel vehicles (TFVs). However, the contribution of NEVs in reducing atmospheric pollutants varies due to differences in mileages and emission factors. Previous literature has rarely studied the influence of NEV subsidy policies on the reduction of atmospheric pollutants, especially with respect to different kinds of vehicles. This paper divides motor vehicles into four categories: buses, taxis, passenger cars, and special vehicles. Taking into account the purchase subsidies and construction subsidies on the charging infrastructure of NEVs, this paper proposes an evaluation index, namely, the comprehensive subsidy efficiency, that measures the effectiveness of the two subsidies in reducing emissions of atmospheric pollutants among different NEVs. In response to Beijing’s plan to prioritize the promotion of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), this paper uses relevant data of BEVs instead of NEVs for the analysis. Taking Beijing as a case study, promotion proportion of NEVs were set according to the comprehensive subsidy efficiency of various NEVs; furthermore, scenario simulation of NEV subsidy policies in 2017 and 2020 was conducted. The results revealed new energy taxis and special vehicles have great a potential to alleviate the greenhouse effect and haze weather, respectively. By prioritizing the promotion of NEVs with higher comprehensive subsidy efficiency, one can achieve greater reduction in the emissions of atmospheric pollutants with equal financial funds. Furthermore, this paper suggests subsidy policies of NEVs from the perspective of reducing emissions of atmospheric pollutants.