Consumer heterogeneity in adopting electric vehicles: A latent class approach

Abstract

While alternative fuel vehicles have strong potential advantages in reaching energy security, environmental and climate goals, their adoption is yet slow. In this paper, we use data from an SP experiment among ca. 3,000 Dutch drivers to elicit individual preferences for full electric vehicles. We estimate a panel latent class model based on the total costs of ownership approach that includes monetary and non- monetary costs, and sketch psychological profiles of potential car user types. We identify 4 classes with distinctly different preferences for EVs and their attributes that are largely determined by individual knowledge, attitudes and environmental identity. Further we find that one of the important barriers for EV adoption is time spent on fast (station) charging. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.