Advances in consumer electric vehicle adoption research: A review and research agenda

Rezvani, Zeinab; Jansson, Johan; Bodin, Jan · 2014 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.1016/j.trd.2014.10.010

archive: archived pipeline: cataloged verified

Get this paper ↗ (DOI — opens at the source; we link to it, we don't host it)

Summary

This review paper addresses the persistent low adoption rates of electric vehicles (EVs) despite their potential to reduce fossil fuel dependency and carbon emissions. The authors argue that mass acceptance relies heavily on consumer perceptions, yet existing research is fragmented across various theories, regions, and vehicle types. The study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the drivers and barriers influencing consumer adoption of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs)—specifically battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and extended-range vehicles (E-REVs)—and to identify gaps in the literature to propose a future research agenda. The authors conducted a systematic literature review of empirical studies published between 2007 and 2014. They searched multiple academic databases using keywords related to EVs, consumer adoption, and attitudes. The review excluded studies focusing solely on non-rechargeable hybrids or macro-level demand modeling, prioritizing empirical data on consumer intentions and behaviors for rechargeable EVs. Sixteen key empirical studies were analyzed and categorized based on the theoretical frameworks employed, including the Theory of Planned Behavior, Rational Choice Theory, Value-Belief-Norm theory, and theories regarding symbols and self-identity. The findings reveal that consumer adoption is influenced by a complex mix of technical, contextual, cost, and individual factors. Technical barriers include range anxiety, charging time, and performance concerns, while contextual factors involve the availability of charging infrastructure and government policies. Cost considerations, particularly high purchase prices versus potential fuel savings, remain significant. Individual factors encompass environmental awareness, lifestyle compatibility, and symbolic meanings associated with driving an EV. The review highlights that while rational choice and normative theories explain self-interest and moral obligations, respectively, there is a notable gap in understanding how symbolic meanings, self-identity, and lifestyle congruency affect adoption. Furthermore, most studies rely on stated intentions rather than actual behavior, and few address the long-term usage experience. The significance of this work lies in its synthesis of disparate research strands into a coherent framework, highlighting the need for more nuanced psychological and sociological approaches. The authors conclude that future research should move beyond rational cost-benefit analyses to explore the symbolic and identity-based aspects of EV ownership. They recommend focusing on actual adoption behavior rather than just intentions, investigating the role of social norms and lifestyle integration, and addressing the specific behavioral demands of charging and range management. This agenda aims to provide deeper insights into consumer psychology to better inform policies and marketing strategies for accelerating EV adoption.

Provenance

The full processing record for this entry. Every stage of this paper's journey through the pipeline is logged — what ran, with which tool and model, how many attempts it took, and when it last completed.

Summary generated by qwen3.6-27b-prismaquant on 2026-06-26; verification: verified.

Topics

Ranked by relevance to this paper. Hover a topic for its definition.

• acceptance adoption