Electric Vehicles: Consumer Perceptions and Expectations

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as the future of the automotive industry. Technological improvements have further reduced the cost of EVs making them more economically viable and an environmentally friendly alternative to IC engine-based vehicles. However, there are several parameters that influence consumers’ decisions to purchase an EV. This article explores these parameters and the impact they have on consumers’ perceptions and expectations of EVs. A survey was conducted for various economic, technological, social, and environmental aspects to understand the perceptions related to electric vehicle acceptance and its expectations. The paper discusses the results of a survey conducted to analyze the various factors that influence consumer perceptions and expectations of electric vehicles (EVs). The survey results indicate that the cost of purchasing an EV, insurance affordability, increasing price of petrol and diesel, mileage (energy consumption), EV incentives, and battery replacement/repair cost have a moderate to very strong impact on consumer decisions. The results also show that the cost of maintenance, time required for maintenance, and ease of maintenance have a moderate impact on consumer perceptions and expectations. The survey results further indicate that the charging time and availability of charging infrastructure have a moderate and low impact, respectively, on consumer decisions. The findings of this survey can be useful for policymakers, manufacturers, and other stakeholders to develop strategies to increase the adoption of EVs.