Patent data as indicators of technological development: investigating the electric vehicle

Summary form only given. This paper explores the value and use of patenting activity as an indicator of technological development. We report the use of US patent data to analyse responses to regulatory change in the automobile industry with the development of the electric vehicle (EV). Key findings from this study include the development of complex networks of firms involved in developing the EV. These firms represent a shift in relationships and methods by the car makers as they strive to acquaint themselves with new technologies. By analysing EV patenting activity several key methodological issues become evident, not least the limitations of defining searches in terms of innovation and technology rather than products. The paper also discusses accessing, recording and analysing patent information