Due to: January 15th, 2024

Mini theses
Group Project

The Impact of Environmental Awareness and

Environmental Concern on the
Adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs)

122676: Safaa Zougar

123209: Yasmine Hmiri
123040: Fatima-Zohra Hammouchane
115806: Salma Zekraoui
122995: Zineb Sbaoui

Professor Mesay Sata Shanka

SDM1 - Research methodology and statistics
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Table of contents:
Abstract: .............................................................................................................................. 3
1. Introduction: ................................................................................................................... 4
2. Literature Review: .......................................................................................................... 5
2.1. Introduction: ............................................................................................................. 5
2.2. Environmental Awareness: ....................................................................................... 5
2.3. Environmental Concerns:.......................................................................................... 5
2.4. Intention to Adopt Electric Vehicles: ........................................................................ 6

3. Theory and Hypotheses Development: ........................................................................... 6

3.1. Theoretical Frameworks: .......................................................................................... 6
3.2. Environmental Awareness Hypotheses: .................................................................... 6
3.3. Environmental Concern Hypotheses: ........................................................................ 7
3.4. Intention to Adopt Electric Vehicles Hypotheses: ..................................................... 7
3.5. Synthesis and Gaps in the Literature: ........................................................................ 7
3.6. Conclusion: .............................................................................................................. 8
4. Methods: .......................................................................................................................... 9
5. Results and discussions: ................................................................................................ 11
5.1. Survey participants: ................................................................................................ 11
5.2. General Perceptions of Electric Vehicles (Evs): ...................................................... 12
5.3. Attitudes Toward Sustainable Technologies:........................................................... 12
5.4. Perceptions of Electric Vehicles' Impact: ................................................................ 13
“Electric vehicles cannot significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional
vehicles”: ...................................................................................................................... 13
5.5. Barriers to Electric Vehicle Adoption: .................................................................... 13
5.6. Intention and Likelihood of Electric Vehicle Adoption: .......................................... 14
6. Conclusion: .................................................................................................................... 15
References: ........................................................................................................................ 16
Appendix 1: EVs Adoption Survey ................................................................................... 18

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Table of figures:
Figure 1 - EV adoption Survey (page 1) .............................................................................. 18
Figure 2 - EV adoption Survey (page 2) .............................................................................. 19
Figure 3 - EV adoption Survey (page 3) .............................................................................. 20
Figure 4 - EV adoption Survey (page 4) .............................................................................. 21
Figure 5 - EV adoption Survey (page 5) .............................................................................. 22
Figure 6 - EV adoption Survey (page 6) .............................................................................. 23
Figure 7 - EV adoption Survey (page 7) .............................................................................. 24
Figure 8 - Data Analysis RStudio (part I) ........................................................................... 25
Figure 9 - Data Analysis RStudio (part II) .......................................................................... 25
Figure 10 - Data Analysis RStudio (part III) ....................................................................... 26

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Abstract:

This research aims to investigate the investigate the impact of environmental awareness and
environmental concern on the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). As the automotive industry
undergoes a transformative shift towards sustainable mobility, understanding the dynamics
shaping consumer choices is crucial for fostering widespread EV adoption. Using a sample of
124 participants, we employed a mixed-methods approach to comprehensively investigate the
impact of environmental awareness and environmental concern on the adoption of electric
vehicles (EVs) among consumers. The study involves a quantitative survey targeting a diverse
sample of potential EV adopters to quantify attitudes, preferences, and concerns related to
electric mobility. Additionally, the research focuses on key variables such as environmental
concern, environmental awareness, and the intention to adopt electric vehicles to collect and
analyze data. The findings indicate that both environmental awareness and concern contribute
positively to electrics vehicle adoption intentions, and the model explains a moderate
proportion of the variation in the dependent variable.

Keywords: Environmental awareness, environmental concern, adoption intention of electric

vehicles (EVs).

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1. Introduction:

In an era marked by rapid technological advancement and an imperative for sustainable

transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) emerge as a promising solution. However, the journey
toward the widespread adoption of EVs is intricately connected to consumer perceptions,
serving as the driving force behind this transition.

This research aims to unravel the complex tapestry of consumer perceptions and shed light on
the numerous factors influencing the adoption of electric vehicles. Understanding this topic is
crucial for the formulation of effective strategies, policies, and innovations. These insights not
only drive market success but also inform sustainability goals and guide decisions regarding
infrastructure and economic implications. They play a pivotal role in facilitating the transition
toward environmentally friendly transportation solutions.

The objectives of this research encompass the identification of attitudes, barriers, and
influencing factors. Additionally, the study delves into exploring regional variances and
anticipating future trends. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and industry
stakeholders, offering opportunities to enhance EV adoption and contribute to the advancement
of sustainable transportation.

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2. Literature Review:
2.1. Introduction:

The research delves into the impact of consumer perceptions on electric vehicle (EV) adoption,
utilizing environmental awareness and concern as independent variables. The central research
question is formulated as follows: How do levels of environmental awareness and concern
influence individuals' intention to adopt electric vehicles?
Comprehending user attitudes is crucial for effective EV adoption within transportation
networks (Lashari et al., 2021). This understanding guides consumer education, product
creation, policy formulation, and marketing tactics, addressing technological challenges,
emphasizing emotional benefits, and customizing marketing techniques (Lashari et al., 2021).
Policy implications, marketing strategies, infrastructure planning, and consumer education can
all benefit from these insights, influencing policymakers, marketers, and industry stakeholders
(Bednarz et al., 2023). Related research aims to aid politicians in energy and transportation
policy development and assist EV engineers in incorporating consumer preferences into
engineering designs (Egbue & Long, 2012).

2.2. Environmental Awareness:

Environmental awareness encompasses knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to
environmental conservation (Bryła et al., 2023). It is measured through various approaches,
including surveys and studies, influenced by education, socioeconomic status, culture, media
exposure, and individual experiences (Bryła et al., 2023). A study in India identifies factors
influencing environmental awareness, including demographics, psychology, and context,
emphasizing the role of education and personal beliefs (Thomas Varghese et al., 2021).

2.3. Environmental Concerns:

Factors such as awareness, attitudes, perceived importance, personal responsibility, self-

identity, and perceived behavioral control contribute to environmental concerns (Bryła et al.,
2023). Positive attitudes foster environmentally conscious behavior, and the interplay of these
dimensions results in environmentally conscious actions (Bryła et al., 2023).

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2.4. Intention to Adopt Electric Vehicles:

Research explores technological, economic, and societal elements impacting electric vehicle
uptake, including range anxiety, battery technology, and charging infrastructure (Bryła et al.,
2023). Social variables such as consumer knowledge, awareness, and environmental concern
influence adoption decisions (Bryła et al., 2023). Factors like friends, relatives, and opinion
leaders impact adoption, while a lack of knowledge and awareness may hinder EV adoption
(Bryła et al., 2023). Regional variations in these variables depend on the local environment and
legislation (Bryła et al., 2023).

3. Theory and Hypotheses Development:

3.1. Theoretical Frameworks:

Theoretical frameworks play a pivotal role in understanding the connection between

environmental consciousness and the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) (Bednarz et al., 2023).
The Theory of Planned Behavior proposes that attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions drive
individual behavior, while the Value-Belief-Norm Hypothesis suggests that environmental
values, beliefs, and social norms impact conduct (Bednarz et al., 2023). Emotions such as pride
and remorse also feature as influencers in pro-environmental conduct (Bednarz et al., 2023).
The research on consumer perception and purchase intention in India incorporates various
frameworks, including the Theory of Planned Behavior, Innovation Diffusion Theory,
Environmental Psychology, and Social Cognitive Theory, aiding in comprehending the
intricate relationship between environmental consciousness and EV adoption (Thomas
Varghese et al., 2021).

3.2. Environmental Awareness Hypotheses:

Several factors influence the relationship between environmental awareness and electric
vehicle adoption (Bednarz et al., 2023). Notably, cost acts as a significant barrier, with
environmentally conscious individuals potentially willing to pay a premium for EVs.
Infrastructure, including reliable charging facilities, serves as a crucial bridge in this
relationship. Social norms, government policies, and incentives, coupled with knowledge and
experience with EVs, collectively impact adoption, highlighting the multifaceted nature of
factors influencing the decision to adopt electric vehicles (Bednarz et al., 2023).

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3.3. Environmental Concern Hypotheses:

The impact of environmental concerns on the intention to use electric vehicles is explored
through the lenses of the Theory of Planned Behavior, Value-Belief-Norm Theory, and
Emotional Factors (Bednarz et al., 2023). Strong environmental concern influences attitudes
and subjective norms, fostering favorable attitudes and social pressure. This aligns with
environmental values, contributing to the formation of pro-environmental norms that shape the
intention to embrace electric vehicles. Feelings of guilt and a desire to contribute to a cleaner
environment are additional factors in this relationship (Bednarz et al., 2023). Furthermore,
perceived cost, infrastructure availability, social norms, and government policies function as
mediators or moderators, providing a nuanced understanding of their influence on the
relationship between environmental awareness/concern and electric vehicle adoption (Thomas
Varghese et al., 2021).

3.4. Intention to Adopt Electric Vehicles Hypotheses:

Cultural and contextual factors significantly influence the relationship between environmental
awareness, concern, and the intention to adopt electric vehicles (Bednarz et al., 2023). National
policies, regulations, infrastructure availability, social norms, values, economic factors, and
technological innovation collectively shape the decision to adopt electric vehicles. Notably,
countries with generous EV incentives exhibit higher adoption rates. Conversely, a lack of
charging infrastructure, social norms, values, and economic factors such as income can
function as deterrents to adoption. Established theoretical frameworks, including the Theory of
Planned Behavior, Innovation Diffusion Theory, and Environmental Psychology, elucidate the
impact of environmental concern on the intention to use electric vehicles, emphasizing positive
attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control as key influencers (Lashari et al.,
2021).

3.5. Synthesis and Gaps in the Literature:

Existing literature underscores a strong correlation between environmental awareness and pro-
environmental behaviors, emphasizing the crucial role of promoting environmental awareness
and concern to encourage EV adoption (Bryła et al., 2023). Theoretical frameworks such as the
Theory of Planned Behavior, Technology Acceptance Model, and Theory of Reasoned Action
contribute to explaining the factors influencing consumer adoption of EVs (Bryła et al., 2023).

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Limitations in the literature on EV adoption include a focus on intentions rather than actual
behavior, reliance on potentially biased self-reported data, and insufficient coverage of
complexities in the relationship between environmental awareness/concern and EV adoption
(Bryła et al., 2023). Additional factors like cost, range anxiety, charging infrastructure, and
social norms are not adequately addressed. Furthermore, the geographical and demographic
specificity of the studies may limit generalizability (Bryła et al., 2023).

3.6. Conclusion:

The literature review establishes the research question, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of
environmental awareness and identifying influencing factors. Theoretical frameworks guide
hypothesis development, addressing gaps in the existing literature. The subsequent sections
delve into the methodology and data analysis plan, ensuring a focused investigation into the
research questions and hypotheses derived from the literature.

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4. Methods:

To investigate the hypotheses, a survey was undertaken employing a questionnaire

methodology. Specifically, it has targeted a participant pool of 124 individuals through
convenience sampling. These participants engaged in an online survey where they provided
demographic details and responded to inquiries pertaining to the outlined measures. The
primary objective was to evaluate the interplay between two independent variables, namely
Environmental Concern and Environmental Awareness, and a singular dependent variable -
Intention to Adopt Electric Vehicles. The survey was disseminated among a diverse cohort,
resulting in 124 comprehensive responses. To present a comprehensive overview of participant
characteristics, Table 1 has been compiled containing key attributes.

The survey incorporated various measures to gauge participants' perspectives:

Environmental Knowledge: Evaluated through a scale of questions aimed at assessing

participants' comprehension of environmental issues, covering topics such as climate change,
pollution, and sustainable practices.

Price Sensitivity: Ascertained by a scale of questions designed to measure participants'

responsiveness to pricing considerations when contemplating environmentally friendly
alternatives, including electric vehicles.

Intention to Purchase: Participants' inclination to embrace electric vehicles was explored

through a scale of questions delving into their attitudes, preferences, and intentions toward
adopting eco-friendly transportation. This measure aimed to encapsulate participants' levels of
interest and receptiveness to adopting electric vehicles in the future.

In summary, the survey methodology involved recruiting 124 participants through convenience
sampling, administering an online questionnaire, and focusing on the relationships between
Environmental Concern, Environmental Awareness, and Intention to Adopt Electric Vehicles.
The results dataset, inclusive of 124 completed responses, formed the basis for the data
analysis.

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Table 1:
Respondents’ demographics (124 responses)

Demographics Percentage (%)

Age 18 – 25 79,8%
26 – 35 16,1%
36 – 45 2,4%
46 – 55 0,8%
Fifty-six and above 0,8%
Gender Male 39,5%
Female 60,5%
Educational Background High School 7,3%
Bachelor’s Degree 27,4%
Master’s Degree 58,1%
PhD or equivalent 7,3%
Employment Status Employed 33,9%
Unemployed 3,2%
Student 62,9%
Retired 0%

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5. Results and discussions:

5.1. EV’s adoption survey - Google Forms:
5.1.1. Survey participants:

The gender distribution in the research sample indicates a majority of 60.5% female
respondents and 39.5% male respondents. This could have implications for the generalizability
of our findings, as gender imbalances may influence the representation of perspectives and
experiences in your study. Consider exploring how these proportions might impact the validity
of the conclusions and whether there are any underlying factors contributing to this distribution.
The age distribution reveals that a significant majority, 79.9%, falls within the 18-25 age range,
suggesting a young participant base. The 16.1% aged between 26-35, and the remaining
respondents aged thirty-six and above might indicate a potential limitation in capturing diverse
age groups. This concentration of younger participants may influence the generalizability of
our findings, emphasizing the need to recognize the study's scope and potential generational
biases in interpreting the results. Consider how age-related perspectives could impact your
research conclusions.
The educational background of our participants illustrates a diverse range, with 58.1% holding
master's degrees, 7.3% having achieved a PhD or equivalent, 27.4% possessing bachelor's
degrees, and 7.3% having completed high school. This distribution suggests a prominent level
of educational attainment within our sample, potentially influencing the depth and complexity
of responses. Consider how participants' educational backgrounds may impact their
perspectives and the depth of insights provided, recognizing the potential for a more nuanced
interpretation based on educational levels.
The employment status breakdown shows that a significant majority, 62.9%, are students,
while 33.9% are employed, and the remaining participants are unemployed. This distribution
implies a strong representation of students, which could influence the focus and priorities of
the responses. Consider how the employment status of participants might shape their
perspectives and experiences, particularly in relation to the nature of the research topic. It is
important to acknowledge potential biases and variations in responses based on different
employment statuses within your interpretation.

5.1.2. General Perceptions of Electric Vehicles (Evs):

“My overall perception of electric vehicles is very negative”:

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A substantial portion of respondents (54 people) disagree with the statement, indicating a
positive or at least a non-negative perception of electric vehicles. The Neutral category (27
persons) suggests a segment of participants who may not have a strong positive or negative
inclination. The combination of Strongly Agree and Agree responses (13 and 12 persons,
respectively) indicates a smaller but notable portion of participants with a negative perception
of electric vehicles.
“I am extremely familiar with the concept of electric vehicles”:
Most respondents (51 persons) "Agree" and 18 "Strongly Agree" with the statement indicating
a prominent level of familiarity with electric vehicles. However, thirty-four individuals are
"Neutral," suggesting a varied level of awareness. A smaller portion, 17 "Disagree" and 4
"Strongly Disagree," indicates a notable subset less familiar with electric vehicles. Overall,
while there is a positive trend, there is diversity in responses, warranting further investigation
into factors influencing familiarity.
“I consider environmental impact, cost of ownership, and vehicle performance when forming
opinions about electric vehicles”:
Most respondents (86 persons) either "Strongly Agree" or "Agree" that they consider
environmental impact, cost of ownership, and vehicle performance when forming opinions
about electric vehicles. A smaller group (24 persons) is "Neutral," and a minority.
(14 persons) expressed disagreement with the statement. Overall, the data suggests a positive
trend in considering multiple factors, but there is diversity in opinions within the sample.

5.1.3. Attitudes Toward Sustainable Technologies:

“Adopting sustainable technologies is not important for the well-being of the environment”:
Most respondents (84 persons) either "Disagree" or "Strongly Disagree" that adopting
sustainable technologies is not important for the well-being of the environment. A smaller
group (23 people) agrees with the statement, and seventeen individuals are neutral. Overall,
there is a prevailing belief in the significance of sustainable technologies for environmental
well-being, but a minority holds a contrary view.
“I am likely to choose a product based on its sustainability features”:
Most respondents (72 people) either "Strongly Agree" or "Agree" that they are likely to choose
a product based on its sustainability features. A smaller group (15 persons) disagrees with the
statement, and thirty-seven individuals are neutral. Overall, there is a strong inclination towards
considering sustainability features in product choices, but some variability exists within the
sample.

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“Sustainable technologies contribute to a positive societal image” :

Most respondents (one hundred persons) either "Strongly Agree" or "Agree" that sustainable
technologies contribute to a positive societal image. A smaller group (8 people) disagrees, and
sixteen individuals are neutral. Overall, there is a prevalent positive perception of the societal
benefits associated with sustainable technologies.

5.1.4. Perceptions of Electric Vehicles' Impact:

“Electric vehicles cannot significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional

vehicles”:
Most respondents (57 persons) either "Disagree" or "Strongly Disagree" with the statement that
electric vehicles cannot significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional vehicles.
A minority (39 people) agrees with the statement, and twenty-eight individuals are neutral.
Overall, there is a prevailing positive perception of the environmental benefits associated with
electric vehicles.
“The adoption of electric vehicles can contribute significantly to a cleaner environment” :
Most respondents (86 persons) either "Strongly Agree" or "Agree" that the adoption of electric
vehicles can significantly contribute to a cleaner environment. A smaller group (21 people)
disagrees, and seventeen individuals are neutral. Overall, there is a prevailing positive
perception of the environmental benefits associated with electric vehicle adoption.

5.1.5. Barriers to Electric Vehicle Adoption:

“I have no concerns about adopting electric vehicles”:

Most respondents (42 persons) either "Disagree" or "Strongly Disagree" that they have no
concerns about adopting electric vehicles. A notable portion (54 people) has some level of
concern or reservations, and twenty-eight individuals are neutral. Overall, there is a prevalent
presence of reservations within the sample regarding the adoption of electric vehicles.
“The initial cost of electric vehicles is not influential in my decision not to adopt one”:
Most respondents (50 persons) either "Disagree" or "Strongly Disagree" that the initial cost of
electric vehicles is not influential in their decision not to adopt one. A notable portion (58
people) disagrees, and twenty-nine individuals are neutral. Overall, the data suggests that, for
the majority, the initial cost is a significant factor in their decision-making regarding electric
vehicle adoption.

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5.1.6. Intention and Likelihood of Electric Vehicle Adoption:

“I am unlikely to consider purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle in the next 5 years”:

A massive portion of respondents (61 persons) either "Strongly Agree" or "Agree" that they
are unlikely to consider purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle in the next 5 years. A minority
(33 persons) disagrees, and forty-three individuals are neutral on the statement. Overall, there
is a prevailing hesitation among respondents about considering electric vehicles soon.
“Factors such as a decrease in the cost of electric vehicles and expansion of charging
infrastructure would influence my decision to adopt an electric vehicle”:
Most respondents (93 persons) either "Strongly Agree" or "Agree" that factors such as a
decrease in the cost of electric vehicles and the expansion of charging infrastructure would
positively influence their decision to adopt an electric vehicle. A minority (11 people)
disagrees, and twenty individuals are neutral on the statement. Overall, there is a prevalent
positive sentiment regarding the impact of these factors on the adoption of electric vehicles.

5.2. Quantitative data analysis - RStudio:

The study aimed to investigate the relationship between environmental awareness (AWA),
environmental concern (CON), and the intention to adopt electric vehicles (INT). The mean,
median, minimum, and maximum values provide an overview of the data's central tendency
and dispersion. The regression equation INT = 2.30 - 0.21 AWA + 0.14 CON suggests the
impact of AWA and CON on INT.
The correlation and regression analyses indicate a statistically significant relationship between
the variables (p-values: 6.277e-05). The coefficients for AWA (0.21467) and CON (0.14434)
imply the strength and direction of their influence on the intention to adopt electric vehicles.
The R-squared value (0.1337 or 13.37%) suggests that 13.37% of the variability in INT can be
explained by AWA and CON. The F-statistic (10.49) indicates the overall significance of the
regression model.
In summary, the study finds that environmental awareness and concern positively influence
electric vehicle adoption intentions, with the model explaining a moderate proportion of the
variation in the dependent variable.

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6. Conclusion:
This research aimed to comprehensively investigate the impact of environmental awareness
and environmental concern on the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Employing a mixed-
methods approach with a sample of 124 participants, the study focused on environmental
awareness, environmental concern, and the intention to adopt EVs. The literature review
established a theoretical framework, highlighting the multifaceted nature of these factors and
identifying gaps in existing research. The survey results provided valuable insights into
participant demographics, general perceptions of EVs, attitudes toward sustainable
technologies, perceptions of EVs' impact, barriers to adoption, and the intention and likelihood
of adopting EVs in the future.
Key findings indicate a positive perception of EVs among respondents, with a strong
inclination towards considering sustainability features in product choices. While there is a
prevailing belief in the environmental benefits of EV adoption, reservations and concerns exist,
particularly regarding the initial cost of EVs. The intention to adopt EVs soon is met with
hesitation, but factors such as a decrease in the cost of EVs and the expansion of charging
infrastructure are perceived as influential in positively shaping adoption decisions.
The study's limitations include a potential bias in the participant demographics, with a majority
being young and highly educated. These demographics may impact the generalizability of the
findings. Additionally, the research emphasizes the need for further investigation into factors
influencing familiarity with EVs and the complexities of the relationship between
environmental awareness, concern, and EV adoption.
Overall, this research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on consumer perceptions
and the adoption of EVs, providing valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders,
and researchers. The findings underscore the importance of addressing barriers and concerns
to facilitate the transition towards sustainable mobility and widespread EV adoption. Future
research should aim to address the identified limitations and further explore the evolving
dynamics of consumer attitudes in the rapidly transforming landscape of sustainable
transportation.

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References:

1. Bednarz, J., Konewka, T., & Czuba, T. (2023). Perceived value and preferences of
purchasing EVs. Centre of Sociological Research Journal of International Studies,
16(3), 2023. https://doi.org/10.14254/2071
2. Bryła, P., Chatterjee, S., & Ciabiada-Bryła, B. (2023). Consumer Adoption of Electric
Vehicles: A Systematic Literature Review. In Energies (Vol. 16, Issue 1). MDPI.
https://doi.org/10.3390/en16010205
3. Egbue, O., & Long, S. (2012). Barriers to widespread adoption of electric vehicles: An
analysis of consumer attitudes and perceptions. Energy Policy, 48, 717–729.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2012.06.009
4. Lashari, Z. A., Ko, J., & Jang, J. (2021). Consumers’ intention to purchase electric
vehicles: Influences of user attitude and perception. Sustainability (Switzerland),
13(12). https://doi.org/10.3390/su13126778
5. Thomas Varghese, A., Abhilash, V. S., & Pillai, S. V. (2021). A Study on Consumer
Perception and Purchase Intention of Electric Vehicles in India. In Finance and
Management (Vol. 3, Issue 1).

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Appendix 1: EVs Adoption Survey

Figure 1 - EV adoption Survey (page 1)

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Figure 2 - EV adoption Survey (page 2)

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Figure 3 - EV adoption Survey (page 3)

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Figure 4 - EV adoption Survey (page 4)

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Figure 5 - EV adoption Survey (page 5)

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Figure 6 - EV adoption Survey (page 6)

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Figure 7 - EV adoption Survey (page 7)

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Appendix 2: Survey results via Rstudio

Figure 8 - Data Analysis RStudio (part I)

Figure 9 - Data Analysis RStudio (part II)

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Figure 10 - Data Analysis RStudio (part III)

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