Academic Service Guidelines of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok to Meet the Requirements of Innovation Development in the Electric Vehicle Industry

Abstract

The transition toward a low-carbon economy and the development of the electric vehicle (EV) industry represent a significant national agenda for Thailand in enhancing its competitiveness and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The shift from internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles affects technological structures, workforce development, and the country’s direction of innovation. Technological universities therefore play an important role in supporting innovation development through their academic service mission. This study aims to: (1) examine the academic service needs of the electric vehicle industry; and (2) explore academic service approaches of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB) that align with those needs. A qualitative research methodology was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 21 key informants, including executives and experts from the EV industry as well as university administrators or personnel involved in EV-related academic service activities. Data were analyzed using interpretive content analysis, and data triangulation from multiple sources was conducted to enhance the credibility of the findings. The findings indicate that industry needs are integrative in nature, covering personnel skill development, collaborative research and development, testing and standard upgrading, and joint innovation design. Effective academic service approaches consist of four systemic components: inputs, co-creation processes, applied outputs, and outcomes reflecting enhanced industrial competitiveness. The findings lead to policy recommendations for developing integrated academic service mechanisms and strengthening collaboration between the university and industry to sustainably support innovation development in the electric vehicle sector.