Usage Patterns of Electric Vehicles as a Reliable Indicator for Acceptance? Findings from a German Field Study

Abstract

Against the background of growing CO2-emissions, climate change and limited oil resources, electric vehicles (EVs) are considered as an essential factor on the way to reduced air pollution and more independence of oil. To reach these goals, a high acceptance and usage rate of these vehicles in the public are essential. Therefore the identification of influencing factors on acceptance and the development of strategies to improve acceptance are necessary pre-conditions for the successful distribution of EVs. One major objective of the current study was to develop methods to measure acceptance of EVs and its influencing factors while participants use the EV in everyday life. In a field trial, 40 participants drove a MINI E in the metropolitan area of Berlin for a period of six months. The self-monitored mobility behavior is a promising variable for validating subjective data concerning acceptance. For this reason, the relationship between acceptance measured via questionnaires and mobility patterns is in the focus of this research. Participants showed positive attitudes towards and high usage intensity of EVs during the whole study period, but only isolated correlations between these different variables were significant. Experiencing an EV for a longer period of time proved to have significant impact on acceptance. Furthermore, environmental concerns and attitudes measured before driving an EV on regular basis turned out to be significant predictors of acceptance.