An analysis of consumer incentives in support of electric vehicle uptake : an Australian case study

Transitioning from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) to innovative technologies, including electric vehicles (EVs), can be a crucial pathway to reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and other negative externalities arising from fossil-fueled cars used for personal transport. Government action to correct insufficient market incentives has been essential in countries working to enhance EV acceptance; however, to date in Australia, there has been little government support to enact EV uptake. This paper identifies barriers and incentives to EV adoption in Australia through a survey of pro-environmental motorists, including an experimental component to test information provision influences on attitude change. Results evidence that wide ranging factors influence vehicle choice including EVs. Purchase barriers are focused on lack of a comprehensive recharge network and high EV purchase price. Factors encouraging fully EV uptake showed affordable price (56%) increased vehicle range (26%) and an adequate recharge network (28%) were mentioned most often; only 13% specifically indicated environmental regard as influential. Information provided about EVs increased the likelihood of positive attitudes towards EV purchase and decreased uncertainty about the technology. Recommendations arising from this research could be considered by laggard countries that, like Australia, have yet to take significant action to encourage transition to EVs.