Providing A Framework For Developing Business Models In The Urban Electric Transportation Ecosystem

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Business management, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.

2 Faculty member at Technology Studies Institute

3 Research Fellow, Institute for Science and Technology Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

10.22075/svcm.2025.39797.1071

Abstract

In many countries, including Iran, the electric vehicle market has not grown significantly despite large subsidies and technological advances. The main reason for this slowdown is the lack of profitable and scalable business models that can turn the limitations of short range, long charging time, and high initial cost into a competitive advantage. Traditional models based on car sales are inefficient for the electric ecosystem and face the classic “chicken and egg” challenge of charging infrastructure and vehicle numbers.
The aim of this study is to provide an indigenous framework for developing successful business models in urban electric transportation in Iran. This developmental-qualitative research was conducted with a grounded theory methodology. The statistical population included electric vehicle industry experts, business managers, policymakers, and investors. Snowball sampling continued until theoretical saturation (18 people) was reached, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed with three-stage coding (open, axial, selective).
The findings showed that 19 core categories were extracted from 113 open codes and were finally organized into a six-dimensional paradigmatic model (causal, contextual, intervening factors, strategies, consequences, and central phenomenon). The results emphasize that the success of new models depends on the transition from subsidy-oriented to service-oriented, redesigning the value proposition, forming multi-stakeholder coalitions, and providing a comprehensive electric mobility solution (vehicle + smart charging + battery sharing + shared services). The presented framework can be used as an operational roadmap for Iranian policymakers, automakers, and investors on the path to realizing clean urban transportation.

Keywords

References

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Strategic Value Chain Management
Volume 3, Issue 1 - Serial Number 8
Research papers
In Progress
May 2026
Pages 23-52

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 November 2025
  • Revise Date: 18 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 28 December 2025
  • Publish Date: 21 April 2026

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