DETERMINANTS OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE ACCEPTANCE: EVIDENCE FROM AN URBAN CONTEXT
List of Authors
  • Mahirah Kamaludin, MUHAMMAD NAJIT SUKEMI, NASIR NAWAWI, NIZAM AHMAT, SITI NORLEENA AB AZIZ, Zuroni Md Jusoh

Keyword
  • Electric vehicle, technology acceptance model, consumer behaviour, sustainability, transportation, acceptance determinants.

Abstract
  • The globe’s inclination towards cleaner transportation has ensured increased demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs). This study aims to determine the major drivers for electric vehicle adoption in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s most developed urban area. A survey approach was used, with a standard questionnaire administered to 432 urban residents, both EV users and non-users. The research framework was developed based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with environmental awareness, vehicle price perception, government subsidy, infrastructure availability, and social influence as the variables. Multiple regression and correlation analyses were conducted to examine the determinants of consumer acceptance of electric vehicles. The research indicates that determinants such as perceived usefulness, environmental concern, and government incentives strongly influence urban residents’ intention to use EVs. But the fear of limited charging infrastructure and high initial costs is a significant deterrent. The study concludes that policy intervention, consumer education, and infrastructure investment must be enhanced to promote the uptake of EVs in the city. This case study provides useful lessons for policymakers, manufacturers, and urban planners on how to forge successful policies for sustainable city transportation in Malaysia that align with the sustainability goals of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030.

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