Electric Vehicles: Driving Global Change at Davos 2025

The World Economic Forum's (WEF) 2025 Annual Meeting in Davos, themed "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age," is set to address critical global challenges with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. For the EV industry, the event highlights opportunities to align with global priorities such as decarbonisation, intelligent industries and safeguarding the planet. Here's how EVs fit into the agenda.

Safeguarding the planet: EVs as a climate solution

One of the central themes of WEF 2025 is "Safeguarding the Planet," which includes 26 live sessions on topics like carbon pricing, nature markets and climate resilience. EVs are pivotal to these discussions as they represent a cornerstone of decarbonising the transport sector.

Katie McGinty, Vice President at Johnson Controls, highlights that "climate action can be shown to drive global progress and corporate success." The sentiment resonates with the EV industry's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while fostering economic growth.

Speakers like Al Gore and Ursula von der Leyen will discuss strategies for achieving carbon neutrality, while sessions will explore how industries like EV manufacturing can contribute to these goals. The transition to EVs is about reducing emissions and creating resilient supply chains and innovative technologies that align with global climate targets.

EV supply chains and decarbonisation

Under the theme "Industries in the Intelligent Age," more than 30 talks will explore how sectors can adapt to technological advancements while addressing environmental concerns.

For EVs, it includes discussions on supply chain sustainability and industrial decarbonisation. Katie McGinty notes that "addressing energy demands resulting from the AI revolution and exponential growth in data centres will also be key," highlighting how innovations like efficient cooling systems can reduce energy use by up to 80%.

Sessions will delve into enhancing EV supply chains, particularly battery production and recycling. With China's leading global EV battery production—holding a 60% market share—there's a growing need for international collaboration to ensure sustainable practices across borders.

The discussions aim to position EVs as a transportation solution and as drivers of industrial innovation in the intelligent age.

Reimagining growth: Economic opportunities in EV expansion

The theme "Reimagining Growth" focuses on building resilient economies while identifying new growth avenues. It means leveraging government policies and incentives for the EV sector to drive adoption.

However, uncertainties such as potential tariff changes under US leadership could impact global EV markets. Despite the challenges, global sales of battery EVs are projected to reach 15.1 million units in 2025—a 30% increase compared to previous years.

Katie McGinty highlights that "leaning into decarbonisation offers a competitive edge," pointing to Johnson Controls' success in reducing carbon emissions and operating costs. Similarly, automakers are exploring ways to make EVs more accessible through advancements in battery technology and infrastructure development.

Investing in people: Inclusive mobility for all

The theme "Investing in People" highlights equitable access to emerging technologies like EVs. Alvaro Lario of IFAD calls on leaders at Davos to ensure that technologies are accessible globally, especially for underserved populations.

It aligns with efforts to expand EV charging infrastructure in cities, which lags behind rising demand. Bridging the gap is essential for making sustainable mobility a reality for all.

Rebuilding trust: Collaboration across stakeholders

Finally, "Rebuilding Trust" fosters collaboration among governments, businesses and civil society. For the EV industry, it means working together to address barriers such as range anxiety, high costs and limited charging infrastructure.

By prioritising transparency and inclusivity in policies and practices, stakeholders can build trust in EV technology as a viable solution for sustainable transportation.

The WEF 2025 Annual Meeting offers a unique platform for advancing EVs as part of a broader strategy for sustainability and innovation. EVs are integral to shaping industries in the intelligent age, from addressing supply chain challenges to promoting equitable access and leveraging decarbonisation for growth.

As Katie aptly states, "Climate action can be shown to drive global progress and corporate success," making it clear that investing in electric mobility is not just an environmental imperative but an economic opportunity.

Stay informed and inspired with the EV Magazine community by signing up for our free weekly newsletter. Each week, receive in your inbox the latest industry news and in-depth insights into the world of electric vehicles, sustainability and cutting-edge innovations.

Subscribe now, don’t miss the opportunity to stay ahead in the fast-evolving EV industry.

EV Magazine is a BizClik brand.