Business Models for Electric Mobility

Abstract Which business models successfully compete in the electric mobility market? High initial costs for electric vehicles and a slow adoption to the mass market result for many companies in almost insurmountable barriers to entry. The presented article introduces a framework for the analysis of e-mobility business models by defining central business model patterns, customer segments and essential key values of electric mobility. Thereby, the aim is to systematically identify e-mobility business model potentials. From the perspective of all stakeholders involved, this helps to overcome existing barriers to entry. Interviews with several mobility, energy and infrastructure providers have been conducted to apply the theoretical framework and to ultimately answer the opening question as follows: Those business models which at least address one aspect of the so called “multifunctional utilisation of electric vehicles” or a high service orientation have the best chances to successfully compete in the electric mobility market.