Moving Towards Sustainable Purchase Behaviour: Determinants of Consumers’ Acceptance of Electric Vehicles in Malaysia

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common in the transportation industry in recent times. However, the market share of EVs is still unrivalled by that of conventional internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs), particularly in developing countries such as Malaysia. This study seeks to investigate the factors of consumer acceptance of EVs in Malaysia. This study specifically investigates six selected factors that may have a significant role in determining EV acceptance. The research was conducted using a quantitative approach, with data collected via an online questionnaire survey among consumers using snowball sampling. Based on 243 valid responses, the findings revealed that environmental concern, energy efficiency of EVs, cost consideration of EV purchases, government policy towards EVs, availability of charging infrastructure, and social influence are positively and significantly associated with consumer acceptance. This study highlights the importance of improving the user experience, resolving practical issues, and emphasising the benefits of EVs to expedite the transition to sustainable and eco-friendly EVs in the context of developing countries.