John Helveston

Joanna Lewis, an expert in energy policy and author, and John Paul Helveston, a scholar of market dynamics, delve into how China has become a leader in clean energy technology. They explore the intricate industrial policies that shaped China’s solar and electric vehicle industries. The conversation highlights the effects of U.S. tariffs, the challenges in automaking, and the urgent need for the U.S. to innovate and rethink its manufacturing strategies to remain competitive. There's a call to recognize the geopolitical stakes in clean energy.

John Helveston, a GWU professor and expert on technology and innovation policy, dives deep into the explosive growth of China's electric vehicle (EV) industry. He discusses how supportive state policies, cultural dynamics, and homegrown manufacturers have propelled China to dominate global EV sales. The conversation also highlights the stark differences in EV adoption between China and the U.S., examining infrastructure, consumer behavior, and the impact of regulatory challenges on American carmakers. Key insights on boosting EV adoption through strategic planning are shared.