Transportation is now the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, making its transformation essential to meeting climate and air quality goals. In this lecture, Dr. Alan Jenn of UC Davis explores the rapid evolution of electric vehicle (EV) technologies and the policies, infrastructure, and market forces shaping their adoption.
Drawing on cutting-edge research in energy systems modeling and real-world deployment data, he examines the environmental benefits, grid integration challenges, charging equity considerations, and lifecycle impacts of electrification. The talk will also address how vehicle electrification intersects with renewable energy expansion, battery innovation, and consumer behavior. Attendees will gain insight into the technological and policy pathways needed to accelerate a just and effective transition to low-carbon mobility.