Policy driven or consumer trait driven? Unpacking the EVs purchase intention of consumers from the policy and consumer trait perspective

This study aims to explore the relationship between incentive policies and consumer traits and the intention to purchase electric vehicles (EVs). Based on the survey data from 807 respondents in Chinese pilot cities, the analysis results show that incentive policies (financial incentive policy, information policy, convenience policy and road privilege policy) and consumer traits (innovative trait, environmental trait and face trait) are positively associated with attitude towards EVs. Moreover, information policy, convenience policy and road privilege policy are positively related to purchase intention. Innovative trait and face trait are also associated with purchase intention. Unexpectedly, financial incentive policy and environmental trait have no significant impact on the intention to purchase EVs. Furthermore, policy recommendations for the further promotions of EVs are discussed on the basis of the research results. •Incentive policies include financial incentive policy, information policy, convenience policy and road privilege policy.•Consumer traits include innovative trait, environmental trait and face trait.•Incentive policies and consumer traits are positively related to attitude toward EVs.•Financial incentive policy and environmental trait have no significant impact on purchase intention.