The award aims to encourage high-quality research that demonstrates both depth and breadth in industrial organization and economics. The research should also showcase relevance, originality, creativity, and collaboration within and beyond academia.
A tribute to collaboration
For Viktor Werner, the award is a great honor and a testament to the impact of his research. He sees it as a celebration of the teamwork he has been part of.
"Above all, this is a great honor, and I see it as a tribute to the fantastic project team I worked with, as well as to the excellent collaborations I’ve had with my supervisors, co-authors, and the entire research environment at Linköping University," says Viktor Werner.
Viktor Werner explains that the dissertation began with a simple question: "Why are so many electric cars sold in Sweden while electric trucks remain rare?" He emphasizes that the transition to electrified transportation involves more than just new technology; social factors such as customer perceptions, engineers' preconceived ideas, and government regulations also play significant roles. Achieving the transition, he argues, requires interplay among these factors.
Corporate influence and limitations
A key insight from Viktor Werner's research is the concept of "firm-system interactions." Large companies like Scania and DB Schenker wield significant influence and can shape how the transport system evolves. However, introducing new technologies is not always straightforward. Companies can drive sustainable development forward but also face limitations due to the system's inherent inertia.
Key insights for the goods transport industry
Werner highlights two critical aspects for the transition to electrified goods transport:
- Understanding corporate drivers and visions: It is essential to examine which changes different companies are promoting and why they envision the future electrified system in specific ways. Different sectors often have diverse visions for how the system should develop.
- Recognizing sustainability in relative terms: A sustainable transport system is always "sustainable in relative terms." It is crucial to reflect on which old practices are carried over into the new electrified system and to consider whether these methods truly contribute to sustainability.
The importance of the award for the future
The ScAIEM Award holds great significance for Viktor Werner’s future research and career. Good research thrives on interaction, and the award opens doors to collaborations across the Nordic region.
"The award comes with resources that I can use for travel to visit other research environments and establish valuable connections," concludes Viktor Werner.
