Barriers and drivers of electric vehicle adoption in India: Attitudinal, social and infrastructure perspectives

Abstract

The rapid rise in vehicle ownership over the last two decades has transformed the transport sector into the third-largest contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 25% of the total. While electric vehicles (EVs) hold promises for reducing emissions, their adoption remains sluggish, particularly in India, where transportation accounts for 13% of national GHG emissions. This thesis investigates the barriers and enablers of EV adoption in India, with Punjab as a focal point due to its severe air pollution crisis and underwhelming EV market penetration despite supportive policies, and underrepresentation in prior EV studies in India. Employing structural equation modelling, integrated choice frameworks, machine learning methods and pre-post intervention experiments, the research identifies critical drivers and barriers to EV adoption across electric two-wheelers (ETWs) and electric four-wheelers (EFWs). Key findings reveal that technological affinity significantly drives EFW adoption, while range anxiety and inadequate charging infrastructure remain significant deterrents. ETWs, characterized by lower reliance on public charging, exhibit greater adoption potential, particularly among middle-income groups and young, employed consumers. Interventions targeting consumer awareness of EV benefits and tailored regional strategies show promise in boosting adoption rates. Despite the constraints of urban-centric data collection, the research offers valuable insights into consumer preferences and policy gaps. Recommendations include expanding charging infrastructure, incentivizing lower-cost EV options, leveraging targeted informational campaigns, among others. This study advances the understanding of sustainable transport solutions in India and provides actionable frameworks as well as target groups for accelerating EV adoption in similar developing contexts.