An Exploration of the Factors Influencing EV Adoption in Sweden : How Consumer Perceptions are Impacted upon Adoption of EV

Abstract: Electric vehicle adoption is one of the most prominent discussions currently facing the automotive industry, as this is an inevitable change towards a more sustainable future of transportation. Traditionally, car manufacturers adapt to consumer needs changing, thus prompting high relevance for understanding the consumer perspective and purchasing influences. This study aims to build a deeper understanding of the importance of internal and external factors on the EV consumer decision-making process, as well as to explore how the perception of such factors change upon adoption of electric vehicles. The study follows a positivism approach by conducting deductive research. A conceptual framework is developed based on review of research literature of rational choice theory, the consumer decision-making model, and factors impacting EV consumers, and constructing a model from the findings. Quantitative survey data is then collected following the model presented, and results are obtained using SPSS. Finally, the analysis applies the social identity theory, innovation diffusion theory, and theory of planned behavior for further evaluative discussions. The findings show that internal factors such as environmental awareness and fears and anxieties have a vital impact on consumers’ decisions of EV adoption and evaluation of EV alternatives, while social influences have a relatively small impact on the decision. The findings suggest a link between the theory of planned behavior and changing perceptions upon adoption of EV, in which factors relating to attitudes and perceived behavioral control are more susceptible to changing, while factors relating to subjective norms are not.