What factors influence individual buyers' decisions to adopt electric vehicles (EV) in New Zealand, and to what extent do these factors contribute to the current state of EV uptake?
Author: Rijo Jose Mundaplackal
Supervisors: Vijay Kumar
26 June 2024
Jose Mundaplackal, R. (2024). What factors influence individual buyers' decisions to adopt electric vehicles (EV) in New Zealand, and to what extent do these factors contribute to the current state of EV uptake? (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Applied Management). Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga, New Zealand. https://doi.org/10.34074/thes.6546
Abstract
Adoption of electric vehicles (EV) is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, achieving sustainable transportation and meeting the targets set by the Emission Reduction Plan by the Government of New Zealand. The research aims to investigate the extent to which determinants such as economic factors, technical factors, environmental factors, and political determinants affect EV uptake in New Zealand. An online survey conducted using Qualtrics is utilised in this research to understand the factors affecting EV adoption in New Zealand which include potential and current EV owners. A structured survey was developed and distributed to a diverse sample population through social media platforms and printed survey invitation posters, allowing them to provide their opinions, perspectives, and expectations about EVs. The survey collected data on participants' demographics, their awareness, and attitudes about EVs, perceived benefits and barriers, and their likelihood of purchasing an EV in the near future. The data derived was analysed using Microsoft Excel to draw meaningful conclusions about the factors influencing New Zealand consumers in EV adoption. Results from the analysis show that battery life warranty is the most important factor influencing consumer decisions. It indicates that long-term reliability is one of the biggest factors that can instill confidence in people's minds regarding EVs. The second most important factor is driving range, highlighting the need for EVs that can travel significant distances on a single charge. The initial purchase price ranks third, reflecting the importance of affordability in the adoption decision. Additionally, the availability of charging stations, resale value, and charging time also play significant roles in consumer decision-making. Finally, based on the results this research makes several recommendations that can aid managerial decisions in overcoming challenges adversely affecting EV uptake in New Zealand.
Keywords
electric vehicle, buyer perception, technology adoption, influencing factors, managerial implications
Licence
A copy of the thesis is publicly available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives licence CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International
This licence applies except where otherwise indicated, especially for images.
