The Willingness to Purchase Electric Vehicles: A Comprehensive Review

This paper aims to comprehensively investigate the multifaceted factors influencing consumers’ willingness to purchase electric vehicles (EVs), providing a deeper understanding of the drivers behind EV adoption. The study draws on various scholarly sources to examine the intricate relationships among multiple determinants, including environmental concern, performance expectations, effort expectancy, charging point networks, charging time, price, operational costs, incentives, and attitude toward EVs. These factors are analyzed within a conceptual framework, highlighting the pivotal role of attitude as a mediating variable. The review reveals that environmental concern, driven by awareness of the ecological impact of conventional vehicles, motivates individuals to opt for EVs as a more sustainable mode of transportation. Performance expectations, such as energy efficiency and emission reduction, significantly influence consumer preferences. Effort expectancy, indicating the ease of using EV technology, plays a critical role in adoption decisions. Charging infrastructure, both availability and accessibility, is a crucial facilitator of EV adoption, emphasizing the importance of robust charging networks. Concerns about charging time underscore the need for faster and more convenient recharging methods. Price remains a barrier, with high initial costs, although operational cost advantages make EVs economically appealing. Depending on the region, government incentives have varying effectiveness in reducing financial barriers to EV adoption. Attitude toward EVs, acting as a mediating variable, highlights the importance of positive perceptions in shaping consumer intentions. This study offers a comprehensive review of the interplay of factors influencing EV adoption, providing a holistic view of consumer decision-making in the EV market. It emphasizes the need for further empirical research to validate and extend the proposed model. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, manufacturers, and researchers in promoting sustainable transportation solutions and accelerating EV adoption in response to environmental concerns.


Introduction
Climate change air pollution constitutes the most substantial threat to human survival.Approximately nine out of every ten individuals worldwide are exposed to harmful air pollution, posing serious health risks.Laboratory-tested data further reveals a substantial rise in CO2 emissions within the European region.Moreover, emissions of CO2 from fossil fuels persistently increase.The primary contributor to this form of pollution is transportation, leading to unsustainable consumption of energy.Projections suggest that this trend could escalate to 50% by 2035, compared to the current global CO2 emission rate 1324 (2024) 012091 IOP Publishing doi:10.1088/1755-1315/1324/1/012091 2 of 25%.Therefore, EVs could contribute to decarbonizing the transportation sector and reducing CO2 emissions [1].
The global automotive landscape is transforming, driven by the increasing urgency to address environmental concerns and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.EVs have emerged as a promising solution to these challenges, offering a cleaner and more sustainable mode of transportation [2].However, the widespread adoption of EVs depends on understanding the multifaceted factors influencing consumers' willingness to purchase them.
Austmann said that despite experiencing rapid expansion, the EVs market's contribution remains modest, representing only around 1% of the worldwide vehicle inventory.Consequently, comprehending the factors influencing this market is paramount to facilitating its advancement.As a result, the body of research dedicated to the EVs market is gaining significant scholarly attention [2].
This paper embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the determinants that shape individuals' intentions to embrace EVs.The decision-making process underlying the purchase of an EVs is intricate and influenced by a confluence of variables.This study seeks to unravel the intricate relationships among several pivotal determinants that collectively drive the willingness to acquire EVs.By drawing on a diverse range of scholarly sources, this investigation delves into the key factors of the the willingness to acquire EVs.

Environmental concern
Ecological interest pertains to an individual's internal assessment of information, attitudes, and actions concerning the natural surroundings [3].Environmental concern is closely intertwined with an individual's ecological values, which significantly shape their inclination to safeguard the environment.This concern has its roots in an individual's self-perception, which encompasses shared values and convictions that trigger attitudes towards specific environmentally conscious products [3].
Gehrke and Reardon observed that, about ecological matters, the adoption of EVs is predominantly prevalent within higher income brackets [4].In embracing EVs, individuals recognize the adverse effects of conventional vehicle usage, such as pollution, climate change, or the depletion of fossil fuel reserves [22].Consequently, when individuals acknowledge the severe repercussions of ecologically detrimental conduct, they tend to exhibit a heightened sense of accountability in their decisions.Thus, when consumers become conscious of the substantial ecological harm caused by conventional vehicles, they tend to assume more responsibility, motivating them to opt for EVs to uphold environmental sustainability [5], [6].
Asadi et al. affirmed that EVs are perceived as a prospective alternative that alleviates various ecological predicaments [5].Individuals who embrace the idea that EVs contribute to reduced pollution are incentivized to acquire them.Previously, Moons and de Pelsmacker also highlighted that ecological concern is an evaluative reaction to environmental issues, and the intensity of concern significantly influences societal conduct in particular ecological domains, such as recycling, energy preservation, the purchase of environmentally friendly products, and the selection of ecologically conscious modes of travel [7].Therefore, as an environmentally conscious mode of transportation, EVs emerge as a pivotal determinant in consumer preference.

Performance Expectations
In the research context of Hoang et al., performance expectations refer to the benefits of EVs that facilitate efficient travel for drivers [8].Compared to conventional vehicles, EVs are perceived to be more energy-efficient [9], offering speed, reducing noise, and enhancing smoothness during operation, enabling drivers to reap performance-enhancing benefits [10].
Moreover, the environmentally conscious nature of EVs is highlighted by their emission-free operation during travel, attributed to their reliance on electric power sources.This attribute contributes significantly to environmental protection, as it enables drivers to participate actively in reducing harmful emissions [11].This aligns with the broader trend of increasing environmental awareness and the call for sustainable transportation solutions.
Previous studies have reported that when customers perceive high performance, they tend to have the intention to purchase EVs, as demonstrated by Lee et al. [12], Zhou et al. [13], Jain et al. [8], and Hoang et al. [14].This insight underscores the critical role of performance expectations in shaping consumer preferences within the EVs market.
Within the research framework of Hoang et al. performance expectations pertain to the advantages of EVs that facilitate efficient travel for drivers [14].In contrast to conventional vehicles, EVs are assessed as more energy-efficient [9], offering speed, reducing noise, and enhancing operational smoothness, thereby potentially allowing drivers to reap benefits and performance improvements [10].
It's worth noting that the unique feature of emission-free travel distinguishes EVs due to their reliance on electric power sources.This aspect aligns with the broader goals of environmental preservation and empowers drivers to actively contribute to minimizing harmful emissions [9].This aligns with the global sustainability shift and the necessity for eco-friendly transportation alternatives [11].

Effort Expectancy
Effort expectancy, a crucial concept in technology adoption, refers to individuals' perceptions of how effortlessly they can navigate and use a particular technology [15].This construct finds its foundation in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), which posits that the likelihood of adopting innovation is intricately tied to its perceived benefits and the ease with which individuals can interact with the new technology.
In the context of EVs, research by Jain et al. underscores their user-friendly nature [8].These vehicles are designed to require minimal effort on the drivers' part when it comes to mastering their operation.As reported in their study, this attribute translates into a noteworthy finding: a robust and positive correlation between effort expectancy and the intention to purchase EVs.This connection is particularly pivotal in EVs adoption, as the perceived ease of using such advanced technology can significantly sway consumer decisions.
Zhou et al. delve into the intricacies of EVss, highlighting nuances such as variations in driving styles, experiential aspects, and the additional tasks associated with EV ownership, such as battery charging [13].Despite these intricacies, their study illuminates the resilience of the relationship between effort expectancy and intention to purchase.Even in the face of these complexities, the perception of a hassle-free interaction with EVs technology continues to influence consumer intentions positively.
In a distinct setting, Hoang et al. reinforce the universality of the impact of effort expectancy on EVs adoption [14].Their investigation focuses explicitly on the Vietnamese context, demonstrating that the ease of using EVs technology significantly and positively shapes the intention to purchase such vehicles.This finding bolsters the empirical evidence in favor of the effort expectancy framework and underscores its cross-cultural applicability.
Therefore, effort expectancy wields a substantial influence on EVs adoption.The studies conducted by Jain et al. [8], Zhou et al. [13], and Hoang et al. [14] collectively showcase that the perceived ease of interacting with EVs technology plays a pivotal role in shaping consumer intentions.As the automotive landscape continues to evolve with technological advancements, understanding and addressing consumers' perceptions of effort in technology use will remain paramount in steering the trajectory of EVs adoption.

Charging Point Networks
Facilitating conditions are defined as users' perceptions that infrastructure is available to support the use of technology [15].In the context of this study, the availability of charging infrastructure is of paramount importance for the acceptance of EVs [16].Maintenance facilities and parking areas equipped with compatible charging points are also necessary for using EVs [13].Further research indicates a significant relationship between facilitating conditions and the intention to purchase EVs [17].If customers perceive the supporting facilities for EVs as sufficient, they are more likely to express a higher intention to purchase them [18].Hoang et al. also demonstrate that facilitating conditions positively and significantly impact the intention to purchase EVs in Vietnam [14].Miranda and Delgado found that the more convenient and accessible the charging station network, the higher the likelihood of consumer EVs adoption [19].Junquera et al. state that EVs charging poses a classic chicken-and-egg problem [20].Infrastructure is crucial for fostering the market, yet at the same time, developing a robust infrastructure only makes sense with an increase in the number of EVs on the road.Rasouli and Timmermans discovered that the distance to charging stations is also a consideration for consumers when buying EVs [21].This underscores the importance of charging point availability and ease of access.
Sriram et al. argue that considering the need for long-distance travel, consumers often demand the provision of public charging stations in more locations [22].The costs associated with establishing such a network of charging stations are once again notably high, leading to uncertainties regarding the expansion of charging infrastructure in the future.If governments and manufacturers are willing to invest in the provision of charging infrastructure facilities, it would undoubtedly enhance consumer interest in purchasing EVs.

Charging Time
The perception of required charging time also influences consumer decisions regarding EVs purchases.Darup et al. discovered that consumers significantly alter their choices if the driving range of EVs increases or the charging time decreases [23].Junquera et al. posit that several publications have highlighted charging time as a pivotal variable in explaining consumer desires to purchase EVs, and it might even become the most critical determinant of the intention to buy such vehicles [20].In fact, according to Junquera et al., extended charging times are perceived as a significant barrier to expanding the market share of EVs [20].They suggest that charging time should be considered a factor when elucidating consumer inclinations toward purchasing new EVs.Rasouli and Timmermans also underscore that the time required for recharging the battery influences consumer decisions to purchase EVs [21].They note that concerning battery recharge times, individuals are generally disinclined to wait extensively for EVs battery recharging.
Sriram et al. assert that a significant proportion of drivers still deem EVs charging less convenient than refueling conventional vehicles [22].They believe the time required for charging EVs could hinder their daily routines due to the inability to refuel swiftly, causing inconvenience, especially for highway drivers.Additionally, if charging stations are only available at home, drivers cannot embark on impromptu journeys when their EVs are being charged.This reduction in flexibility inevitably impacts their interest in purchasing EVs.

Price
Sriram et al. assert that the high purchase price of EVs has been identified as a significant impediment in numerous consumer survey studies.The technology utilized in EVs manufacturing is indeed costly, leading to elevated vehicle pricing [22].As continuous efforts are made, and newer technologies are introduced to enhance the range of EVs, the complexity of the lithium-ion battery materials used increases, resulting in battery price hikes [24], which, in turn, contribute to the escalation of EVs costs.Although the servicing and maintenance costs of EVs are lower than gasoline-powered vehicles, the high initial purchase price remains a hurdle for consumers in adopting EVs.
Higueras-Castillo et al. indicate that the high price is the most significant obstacle to EVs purchase [25].Several studies demonstrate that consumers are unwilling to pay exorbitant prices for EVs, as Larson et al. exemplify [26].Sierzchula et al. also reveal that in about 30 countries, EVs prices exhibit a negative correlation with market share [27].Junquera et al. state that reducing prices can amplify the public's desire to purchase EVs [20], and according to Feng and Figliozzi, this enhancement can bolster the competitive edge of EVs sales [28].Rezvani et al. argue that high costs remain one of the primary concerns for consumers [29].Subsequently, Heyvaert et al. emphasize that the high purchase price is a prominent drawback in EVs sales [30].Soltani-sobh et al. also affirm that lower EVs prices augment the inclination to purchase such vehicles [31].Rasouli and Timmermans also discovered that price influences consumer interest in purchasing EVs [21].

Operational Costs
Higueras-Castillo et al. emphasize a dual perspective regarding the impact of high EVs prices on purchase intentions.While elevated prices might initially seem discouraging, the equation shifts when considering the advantageous operational costs associated with EVs.These operational benefits encompass factors such as charging rates and maintenance outlays, pivotal in motivating potential buyers [25].This reflects a balancing act between immediate cost considerations and long-term financial efficiency.
Zhang et al.'s study further underscores financial benefits' role as a significant driver behind the acceptance of EVs.The economic incentives arising from favorable energy prices and recharging costs enhance the overall appeal of EVs ownership.This resonates with the growing emphasis on costeffectiveness in consumers' decision-making processes, demonstrating how financial considerations increasingly influence their preferences [32].
Moreover, the comparative cost analysis presented by Chu et al. reaffirms the substantial influence of recharging cost differentials on consumer behavior.The affordability of recharging EVs batteries compared to refueling conventional internal combustion engine vehicles becomes a compelling incentive [33].This aspect not only underscores the practicality of EVs from an economic standpoint but also aligns with the broader sustainability goals of reduced fossil fuel consumption.
A notable feature that emerges from the discourse is the inherent simplicity of EVs propulsion systems, as highlighted by the study conducted by Chu et al. [33].This simplicity contributes to lower maintenance expenses, representing a further economic advantage of EVs over their traditional counterparts.The convergence of reduced operational complexity and subsequent financial savings lends credence to the notion that EVs hold significant potential for long-term economic viability.
These accrued insights collectively underscore the intricate interplay between pricing, operational benefits, and financial considerations in shaping consumers' intentions to adopt EVs.The pragmatic allure of lower operational costs and maintenance outlays, accentuated by the comparative simplicity of EVs technology, reshapes the narrative around EVs purchases and paves the way for sustainable mobility solutions.

Incentives
In recent years, various governments have taken steps to stimulate interest in EVs, as highlighted by Higueras-Castillo et al. [25].Numerous publications have illustrated the implementation of incentives across different regions such as the United States [34], Europe [35], [36], and various countries worldwide [37].In this context, Sierzchula et al. analyzed the correlation between incentives and the market share of EVs in 30 countries [27].The research findings indicated that incentives predict consumer decision-making processes toward purchasing EVs.Evaluating the relationship between the total ownership cost of EVs and the impact of tax incentives compared to internal combustion vehicles (ICVs), Lévay et al. examined eight European countries.Their study showed that incentives led to lower total ownership costs for EVs in Norway [38].In contrast, in the Netherlands, France, and the United Kingdom, total ownership costs for EVs approached those of ICVs [38].
Nevertheless, EVs ownership costs in other countries remained higher than those of ICVs.Incentive measures significantly influence EVs adoption and usage patterns, including reduced pricing and exemptions from road and registration taxes.The European Alternative Fuels Observatory study [39] identified France, Norway, and Germany as the most EV-friendly nations in Europe, with Spain ranking 12th in incentives.

Attitude toward EVs
Bennett and Vijaygopal assert that intuitively, a favorable attitude towards a product should be associated with a greater inclination to purchase that product.However, attempts to demonstrate the assumed relationship between attitude and purchasing intention often need to be revised, especially concerning environmental attitudes and actual environmental behaviors.The relationship between attitude and willingness to purchase a product is complex due to various situational and personality factors that can potentially influence purchasing decisions, such as risk attitudes, marketing and advertising influences, alternative pricing, and differences in the perceived importance of specific consumer-related variables.Thus, the strength of the assumed relationship is likely to vary depending on several considerations [3].
Gunawan et al. assert that one of the determinants of interest in purchasing EVs is the attitude toward behavior.The theoretical concept of this factor discusses an individual's evaluation of behavior that lacks negative impacts [40].This that the higher the positive assessment of the product, the stronger the impetus to engage in specific actions leading to the adoption of that product.Wang et al. explain that behavioral intentions can be highly predicted based on attitudes.An individual's attitude can influence their response to stimuli, and those with a favorable attitude towards action are likelier to engage in that behavior [41].

Figure 1. Research Model
Gunawan et al. [40] [42].Jaiswal et al. also posit that a positive assessment of EVs determines the intention to purchase them [43].
In addition to influencing the desire to purchase EVs, attitude also assumes the role of a mediating variable between the preceding factors that impact the intention to buy EVs.Thus, as mentioned above, the interplay of the variables constitutes a conceptual framework or model, as depicted in Figure 1, which can be empirically tested in future research endeavors.

The future research
The current literature review sets the stage for an empirical investigation to test the proposed conceptual model in future research.This research aims to uncover the driving factors behind the willingness to purchase EVs by conducting a field study to gather data and analyze the relationships between various key variables.
The research will collect data from potential EVs consumers to explore how different factors influence their willingness to buy.The conceptual framework developed in this literature review will serve as the foundation for designing the research methodology.The study will involve surveying individuals considering purchasing an EVs, and the survey will include questions related to the identified variables: environmental concern, performance expectations, effort expectancy, charging point networks, charging time, price, operational costs, incentives, and attitude toward EVs.
The gathered data will then be analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques to examine the relationships between these variables.The study aims to quantify the impact of each factor on consumers' willingness to buy EVs and understand how these factors may interact and influence each other.The empirical findings will provide insights into the relative importance of these factors in shaping consumers' intentions to adopt EVs.
Ultimately, the empirical research aims to validate and extend the conceptual model proposed in the literature review.This field study intends to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on EVs adoption by providing real-world evidence of the factors that drive consumers' willingness to buy EVs.The findings from this research will offer valuable insights for policymakers, manufacturers, and researchers interested in promoting sustainable transportation solutions and accelerating the adoption of EVs.

Conclusion
In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis has shed light on the factors influencing the willingness to purchase EVs.By investigating the intricate interplay of environmental concerns, performance expectations, effort expectancy, charging point networks, charging time, price, operational costs, incentives, and attitude toward EVs, this study has revealed the complex dynamics that shape consumer intentions in the EVs market.
The environmental concern emerges as a fundamental driver as individuals increasingly recognize the ecological implications of conventional vehicles and seek more sustainable alternatives.Performance expectations contribute significantly, as the perceived benefits of EVs in terms of energy efficiency, emission reduction, and enhanced driving experiences impact consumer preferences.The ease of use, represented by effort expectancy, plays a pivotal role, indicating that the seamless interaction with EVs technology positively influences adoption decisions.
Charging infrastructure, encompassing both availability and accessibility, emerges as a critical facilitator, emphasizing the importance of developing a robust charging network to promote EVs adoption.Charging time, an often-cited concern underscores the need for faster and more convenient recharging methods to address consumer apprehensions.Price remains a key consideration, with high initial costs being a significant barrier; however, operational cost advantages, including lower maintenance and recharging expenses, contribute to the economic appeal of EVs.
Government incentives to reduce financial barriers and promote EVs adoption exhibit a notable influence, although the effectiveness varies by region.Attitude toward EVs, acting as a mediating variable, underscores the importance of positive perceptions and evaluations in shaping consumer intentions.
The conceptual framework presented here serves as a foundation for future empirical research to validate and extend the relationships among these factors through data collection and statistical analysis.By empirically testing the proposed model, researchers can gain deeper insights into the relative impacts of these determinants on consumers' willingness embrace EVs.
In a world grappling with the urgency of environmental concerns and the need for sustainable transportation, understanding these drivers of EVs adoption is crucial.Policymakers, manufacturers, and researchers can leverage these insights to formulate strategies, design incentives, and develop technologies that accelerate the transition to EVs, fostering a more environmentally friendly and sustainable automotive landscape.
[41]ide evidence that consumers' positive attitudes toward EVs significantly influence their interest in purchasing them.Several studies demonstrate how attitudes affect consumers' Wang et al. found that attitude exhibits the strongest predictive capacity for the intention to purchase EVs[41].Another study by Lim et al. discovered a positive relationship between attitude and the intention to adopt EVs in Malaysia