Joint Effects of Perceived Benefits, Perceived Barriers, and Policy Interventions on Behavioral Intentions Toward Electric Vehicles in Vietnam

The current study applies a hybrid model to investigate the combined effects of perceptions towards benefits and barriers and policy interventions on behavioral intention to use electric vehicles (EVs) in Vietnam, a country where the EV market is still in its infancy, and transportation is becoming a significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emitter. A total of 1337 questionnaires were randomly distributed to people in twelve districts in Hanoi, Vietnam. The results showed that 25.8% of respondents were more likely to adopt EVs, in contrast to 74.2% indicating that they would not mind EVs. Economic and operational barriers were two key factors excluding people from adopting EVs. On the other hand, consumer subsidies have been identified as the most favorable solution to the widespread adoption of EVs. The findings of the study suggest that environmentalism and socio-demographics were not reliable indicators of the level of EV adoption in the early stages of the EV market. This provides new insight into the infant EV market not only specifically in Vietnam but also in other countries that despite having a high level of education and a strong commitment to the environment, many people view electric mobility as a minor aspect of their lives. However, financial incentives act as amplifiers in promoting the uptake of EVs in the infant EV market. Based on our findings, the government should consider providing consumer subsidies as a policy intervention to increase the market share of EVs and address the issues of pollution abatement.