Powering a (re)volution

Dissertation project for Bálint Kronstein.
Supervisors: Ståle Holgersson och Camilla Berglund.

The battery manufacturing industry is rapidly growing, supported by both private and public investment. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). While the role of batteries in the green energy transition is unquestionable, the effectiveness of EVs as a sustainable solution is debated. The research project seeks to examine whether the EV-led 'sustainable' mobility transition can drive a fundamental change in current socio-economic practices to address the climate crisis.

By analyzing the discourses surrounding battery manufacturing, the project argues that, rather than contributing to a disruption in current socio-economic practices, battery manufacturing maintains the exploitative capitalist practices. A critical approach to battery manufacturing, opposed to the present techno-optimist policy, is essential.