Energy Justice and the Multi-Level Perspective: Navigating Change in the Indian Automotive Industry

The transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) in India marks a critical step towards the country's journey to decarbonize its transport sector and achieve long-term sustainability goals. While this shift is environmentally progressive, it presents significant challenges for the automotive industry, which has long been dominated by Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. This paper examines these challenges through the lens of the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) framework, focusing on the difficulties faced by manufacturers in adapting to this new paradigm. The study explores the niche innovation of Electric Vehicles, the stable ICE-dominated automotive regime, and broader socio-technical landscapes, including climate goals and policy dynamics in the Indian context. Furthermore, the study integrates Energy Justice principles to offer a comprehensive view of the EV transition, highlighting the equitable distribution of benefits and burdens across the industry.

The key research question explored is how legacy automakers are managing disruptions to their stable and established production practices and supply chains. As competitive pressures from emerging EV technologies grow, the need for sustainable production methods becomes increasingly urgent for traditional industry actors. The study employs a qualitative approach, conducting in-depth interviews with 30 stakeholders, including manufacturers, industry experts, government officials, and civil society representatives connected to India’s automotive sector.

By focusing on the specific challenges of manufacturing, this research provides insights into how legacy automakers and niche players are managing the transition to EVs. It highlights the socio-economic impacts of this transition, particularly regarding social equity and industrial change. The study also assesses whether the principles of Energy Justice are being adequately addressed or overlooked in the process. The findings offer critical recommendations for policy interventions aimed at ensuring a just and equitable transition to electric mobility in India while addressing the unique socio-economic and regulatory challenges faced by the country’s automotive industry.