A CUHK study finds China’s high-speed rail network has significantly boosted EV adoption by easing range anxiety and supporting sustainable transport.
New research from CUHK Business School suggests that China’s rapid expansion of high-speed rail has played a major, often overlooked role in the country’s surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption. While subsidies and industrial policy are usually credited for China’s dominance—now accounting for nearly two-thirds of global EV sales—the study highlights how transport infrastructure has helped shape consumer behaviour.
According to the findings, high-speed rail connectivity may account for up to a third of the growth in EV adoption between 2010 and 2023. The key factor is its ability to reduce “range anxiety,” a common concern among potential EV buyers about battery limitations on long-distance trips. With a reliable rail network in place, consumers are more comfortable using EVs for daily, short-distance travel while relying on trains for longer journeys.
The research, led by Professor Zoe Yang Yang, analysed vehicle registration data across more than 300 cities in mainland China and found that EV uptake increased significantly in areas newly connected to high-speed rail. Over time, this growth also contributed to a wider ecosystem effect, where higher EV adoption encouraged the expansion of charging infrastructure, further reinforcing demand.
The study points to a broader lesson for policymakers: EV adoption is not just about vehicles or incentives alone, but how well they integrate with existing transport systems. By aligning infrastructure such as rail, public transport, and charging networks, governments can build greater confidence in EV ownership and accelerate the transition to more sustainable mobility.
The full study can be read here.
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