A Tripartite Evolutionary Game Model for Power Battery Recycling Considering the Product Life Cycle Theory

Abstract

The recycling of electric vehicle batteries (EVBR) not only helps mitigate environmental pollution and resource depletion but also promotes the sustainable development of industries such as electric vehicles and energy storage. In China, the EVBR industry remains in its early stages, and clarifying the interactions among key stakeholders is crucial to promoting its maturity. This paper proposes a tripartite evolutionary game model for battery recycling based on the product life cycle theory, incorporating the government, NEVMs and consumers as participants. Based on a systematic literature review, the factors and corresponding value ranges affecting stakeholders’ strategic choices were identified, and numerical simulations were conducted using MATLAB R2024b to explore stakeholders' strategic evolution and underlying mechanisms across various stages of the industry life cycle. The results show that in the early stage of EVBR industry, the government plays a leading role in guiding NEVMs to invest in blockchain traceability technology through incentive policies. As the EVBR industry develops and value creation becomes more prominent, market mechanisms gradually take effect, encouraging NEVMs and consumers to adopt a "collaborative participation" model. In the mature stage, the government's role shifts from intervention to oversight. From the results of sensitivity analysis, a moderate reward-punishment mechanism can effectively stimulate NEVM technological innovation, while excessive subsidies may impose a heavy financial burden. Enhancing recycling revenue and environmental benefits is the core driving force to stimulate the active participation of NEVMs and consumers. This study provides theoretical support for rational decision-making among stakeholders in the EVBR process and contributes to the sustainable development of the EVBR industry