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This paper assesses the influence of policy-relevant factors for electric vehicle (EV) uptake, while considering the related solar-panel context, using the 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey for the U.S. Our results suggest that the link from household income to EV uptake is relatively weak; we find the link from education to EV uptake is stronger. Three policy reforms are suggested based on our analysis of actual household data. If income is used in determining subsidies, then increased targeting of policy support to lower income levels may be warranted. Policymakers may also consider alternative approaches, rather than relying on income thresholds. Policy bundling is also suggested, where households can use subsidies for their chosen energy investment, rather than separate schemes for solar panels and EVs. This flexible approach could be appropriate for renters, who were less likely to have at least one of an EV or solar panels by up to 3.5 percentage points. • Electric vehicle (EV) uptake is studied with actual U.S. household data. • The positive impact of income on EV uptake is affected by modelling choices. • Education has a more robust influence than income for EV uptake. • Policy alternatives to high income thresholds can include targeting based on education. • Pooling support from multiple energy policies could address lower EV uptake by renters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United States’ Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) introduces new eligibility requirements for existing USD 7,500 tax-credit provided to electric vehicles. The new requirements condition the credit upon North American final assembly and North American-sourced materials and components. As tensions flare between the US and China, these new local content requirements reflect the US’s effort to establish a supply chain for electric vehicles that circumvents China. The blow, however, is felt elsewhere, namely by South Korean auto makers whose electric vehicle models are no longer eligible for the significant tax-credit necessary to compete in the American market. As South Korea considers submitting a complaint to relevant international bodies, this paper dissects the IRA’s relevant provisions and analyzes the applicability of international trade law rules of the WTO and the Korea-US Free Trade Agreement to the new local content requirements of the IRA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]