A STUDY ON CONSUMER PERCEPTION TOWARDS

ELECTRIC VEHICLES WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO

ERNAKULAM DISTRICT

Arun George Joseph,

Assistant Professor,

Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management,

Marian College Kuttikkanam (Autonomous)

arun.george@mariancollege.org 9846519772

Krishnapriya K.U

Alumna and Former Asst Professor,

Marian College Kuttikkanam (Autonomous)

Krishnapriya.ku@mariancollege.org 9778113460,

&

Dr. Babu Michael,

Professor & Research Guide,

BIMS – SB College, Changanassery

kavukattubabu@gmail.com 9495195684
ABSTRACT
People all around the world are looking for a green environment and possible ways to
achieve it. Electric vehicles take this matter into concern and look forward to making a
beautiful world. In many countries, electric vehicles are popular and widely used but it
is not so common in India. There may be something that is hindering and it is required
to look deep into it. India has the largest market of Electric vehicles in the world. With
the development of infrastructure, technology and power source there are chances for a
shift towards Electric vehicles. The widespread introduction of electric vehicles has the
potential to improve public health. Electric vehicles do not emit as many harmful gases
as fulled vehicles. With less air pollution, air quality has a chance to improve which in
turn will lead to better health. Electric vehicle innovation and technology helps to grow
the economy. There is a wide scope for Electric vehicles in two-wheeler market, auto
rickshaws, goods vehicles, bus as well as four wheelers. All of this market is awaiting
for the change.

Keywords: Electric Vehicles, Innovation, Customer preference, Consumer Perception,

Consumer buying behavior, Consumer Behavior, Promotion, Marketing Management

Being a developed and literate state in India, Kerala is also not showing much growth.
So, this paper aims to understand the pattern that influence people to prefer EVs.
Transport segment is the biggest buyer of oil in India. Since India imports more than
three fourth of its oil request, the oil imports have genuine ramifications for national
vitality security. Because of high oil reliance transport part likewise represents about
10% of CO2 outflows and is a noteworthy hotspot for air poisons. The study comes into
effect as a solution to the environmental concern of people and how electric vehicles
will survive in the minds of customers for the coming years. The paper investigations
the various co-advantages of EVs as CO2 outflows decrease, vitality security and air
contamination. Other than the co benefits, EVs can likewise have co-expenses and
dangers, for example, from the vast scale interest for batteries. The study “Consumer
perception towards Electric Vehicles with special reference to Ernakulam district”
raised certain question for identifying the factors influencing customer perception
towards EVs. The paper handles the concepts about electric vehicle and consumer ‘s
awareness level, perception, future demand, barriers and the related factors. This paper
goes through the basics and tries to understand from a consumer level which could help
tap the consumers.

Objectives
The primary objectives of the study are:
 To determine the awareness level of customers on E-Vehicles
 To study the factors driving customers to purchase E-Vehicles
 Assessing the future demand for E-vehicles
 To identify the barriers hindering the accessibility of E-Vehicles

The study was conducted only among respondents from Ernakulam district in
Kerala. Primary data of a sample population of about 120 were taken from
residents of Ernakulam district of Kerala. Due to the qualitative and inferential
statistical character of this study, all primary and secondary data are necessary for
data gathering. The collected data will be analysed using SPSS and the tools
using where Chi-square test and One Way Anova.

Review of Literature:
Afroz, Rahman, Masud, Akhtar and Duasa(2015) aims at “How Individual
Values and Attitude Influence Consumers Purchase Intention of Electric
Vehicles Some Insights from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.” This article analyses
how personal beliefs and behaviours of customers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
impact their purchase intention of electric cars (EVs) utilising well-known
concept of rational action (TRA). This paper analysed data from 200 informants
in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. These participants were requested about their value
systems, behaviors, and EV buying behaviour and use the structural equation
modelling (SEM) approach. Independent costs and accessibility are negatively
related to customer willingness to acquire electric vehicles, according to the
conclusions of this investigation. Environmental factors do not prove to be a
major predictor of purchase intention. Restoration value was shown to be
favourably connected to participants' views regarding environmental
repercussions but not so much to sequence, whereas self-transcendence as well as
self-worth were both positively associated to individual consequences. Individual
achievements and self-improvement principles were inversely correlated with an
environmentally friendly purchase intention. As proven in this article, the
expanded TRA may be applicable in the Malaysian setting. The findings of the
study also suggest that local and foreign EV producers should take into account
the perceived simplicity of customers recycling and reusing batteries by utilizing
specific recyclable and non-harmful goods.

Buhler, Cocron, Neumann, Franke and Krems(2014), in their study “Is EV

experience related to EV acceptance? Results from a German field study”,
Electric vehicles (EVs) are a viable solution for growing CO2 emissions and
long-term dependency. In this article, we looked at how a group of early adopters
evaluate and accept the present level of electric vehicle technology, as well as
how expertise influences EV appraisal and acceptability. Data from 79
individuals who drove an electric vehicle in the Berlin metropolitan area were
analyzed during the course of a six-month field study (before receiving the EV,
after 3 and 6 months of usage). A wide range of advantages, as well as
acceptability barriers, were documented. They are enthusiastic about EVs and
have an optimistic response regarding them, as well as modest purchasing plans.
The impression of electric vehicles can be substantially altered by experience.
Many of the benefits (e.g., driving pleasure, low refueling costs) and some of the
drawbacks (e.g., low noise) have been highlighted even further. Participation had
a considerable favorable impact on people's overall perceptions of EVs, but not
on their attitudes, purchase intentions, or willingness to promote EVs to others.
The findings suggest that EVs have always received good feedback, but
adjustments to major roadblocks, such as purchase prices, are required for general
commercial success in Germany. Real-life experience may be a powerful
marketing tool.

Droesch(2020) in his article “Influencers More Likely to Inspire Gen Z and

Millennial Purchases” set out influence recommendations role in the younger
generation. Influencer reviews are more likely to be trusted by younger
generations, who are more likely to purchase goods based on them. Influencers,
on the other hand, are also seen as less trustworthy than other outlets by these
demographics. Furthermore, the data firm distinguishes celebrities and sportsmen
from influencers, whereas the GlobalWebIndex poll combines the two. Despite
these significant numbers, Morning Consult says that youngsters still prefer to
rely on relatives and friends for product comments and recommendations rather
than influencers. "The celebrities people follow on social media are an essential
component of a lot of adolescents 37 and young adults' lives, both for amusement
and for inspiration," eMarketer research advisor Debra Aho Williamson said.
"However, marketers must keep in mind that influencers are only one part of the
equation when it comes to purchasing decisions." Despite these significant
numbers, Morning Consult says that new generations still prefer to rely on friends
and family for product comments and recommendations rather than influencers.

Goodfield (2015), in his thesis “EVALUATING PERCEPTION TOWARDS

ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN THE GREATER TORONTO AND HAMILTON
AREA”, describes the contributing factors in the acceleration of global climate
change. The vast majority of global transportation choices depend heavily on
fossil fuel outputs, which has been a major contributor to global climate change
acceleration. Given Ontario's relatively "clean" electricity supply mix, recent
public policy outputs represent a change in interest in better using electricity to
reform the transportation sector to meet GHG emission reduction targets. Despite
the province's incentive schemes, only a small percentage of people own electric
vehicles, implying that research into the obstacles to adoption in the Greater
Toronto and Hamilton Area is needed to inform future decisions. To better
understand attitudes toward the technology and sustainable transportation reform
in general, a survey was conducted among existing electric vehicle owners as
well as gasoline and diesel vehicle owners. The findings are intended to help
forecast potential strategies for a more competitive diffusion of alternative
mobility solutions to increase customer and public acceptance.

Higueras-Castillo, Molinillo, Coca-Stefaniak and Liébana-Cabanillas(2019) in

their article “Perceived Value and Customer Adoption of Electric and Hybrid
Vehicles” Customer acceptability was established, and the value of electric and
hybrid vehicles was recognized. Vehicles with internal combustion engines are a
serious environmental problem in urban areas. During the last few years,
administrations and the automobile industry have pushed for the acceptance of
electromobility (EM) options to reduce noxious pollutants and reliance on fossil
fuels, but with mixed results in terms of market penetration. The goal of this
study was to learn more about the elements that impact customers' inclinations to
use EM. Relevant theories of financial quality, this study provides a behavioral
model based on four levels of psychological value and 38 associated with
technological performance parameters of EM cars in terms of their impact on
customer attitudes toward EM options as a prelude to purchase. The research has
empirically tested using ordinary least square method and data from a 404-person
online survey in Spain. According to the conclusions of this analysis, emotional
issues, product pricing, vehicle performance, and low engine audible noise all
influence consumer perceptions, which has a good impact on EM vehicle
purchase intentions. On the other hand, neither quality nor social significance
were proven to have a favorable influence on consumer perceptions. And as per
the findings, legislators and producers should focus on specific product
characteristics such as efficiency (e.g., automotive efficiency as well as lower
revs noise levels) and good value in terms of power usage in their socioeconomic
and product advertising strategies to empower the use of electric vehicles.

Jabeen, Olaru, Smith, Braunl and Speidel (2014), in a research “Acceptability

of Electric Vehicles: Findings from a driver survey”, discuss the electric
vehicles acceptability from vehicle drivers. Even with the current high purchasing
rate, plug-in electric vehicles (EV) deliver a safe and cost-effective means of
travelling short to medium distances within the city in the long run. EVs could be
appealing as a second car in a multicar household in Australia. Acceptance of
electric vehicles necessitates a behavioural shift: instead of refuelling, this vehicle
needs battery charging every 140-160 kilometres, either at home or specialised
charging stations. In Perth, a small number of electric vehicles are being tested as
part of the Western Australia Electric Vehicle experiment (WA EV trial). The
trial will monitor the EV fleet's efficiency, benefits, infrastructure, and practical
implications. The views and perspectives of 43 of the participants are examined
in this article. The key motivators and obstacles to buying and using an electric
vehicle are identified using factor analysis and multiple regression. Ninety per
cent of respondents are confident in their ability to drive an electric vehicle, and
more than 45 per cent take trips of more than 30 kilometres. Although zero
tailpipe emissions is the most attractive feature of an electric vehicle, followed by
home charging, the vehicle's restricted range is considered the most significant
obstacle to EV adoption. Although 13 participants encountered at least one
technical difficulty while driving the EVs in the trial, overall satisfaction with the
EV results is high (an average score of 3.96 out of 5). Two latent constructs
reflecting environmental issues and technology learning, as well as EV
advantages and technical difficulties encountered when driving an EV, account
for 59.2 per cent of the variation in willingness to buy an EV as the next car.

Kumar and Padmanaban(2019), in their paper “Electric Vehicles for India:

Overview and Challenges” Discuss the issue of global pollution. Global
pollutants is on the rise, and all efforts are being made to limit CO2 emissions and
safeguard the environment. One such endeavour is the implementation of electric
automobiles (EV). It is vital to transform the automotive industry into a
sustainable economy because it is one of the greatest CO2 emitters. The Indian
government has big aspirations to bring electric cars to India and stay up with
global EV manufacturing. The National Electric Mobility Mission Plan 2020
includes a full analysis of EVs (NEMMP 2020).

Li, Long, Chen and Geng (2017), in their research “A review of factors
influencing consumer intentions to adopt battery electric vehicles”, highlights
the various aspects that influence the adoption of electric vehicles. Despite
reductions in pollution and inappropriate fossil fuel usage, the share of electric
(BEV) on the roadway remains low. Why is it the way it is? Why is it so difficult
to obtain widespread BEV adoption? One key factor is that BEV adoption is
heavily reliant on customer approval, and there is a lack of desire to adopt this
form of transportation. This research is a systematic assessment of peer-reviewed
journal publications aimed at determining why and how consumer intents have
been detected in BEV investigations.
Mokariya, Shah and Lokhande(2015) in their study “IMPACT OF
PENETRATION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES ON INDIAN POWER GRID”
The influence of electric automobiles on the Indian power system is investigated.
The goal of assessing the influence of electric vehicles on the Indian electricity
network is to speed up the production of electric automobiles in efforts to answer
the current problems of higher fuel consumption and the nation's reliance on
foreign nations for fuel, since it has a serious influence on the nation ’s Gdp. As
part of its Emobility programme, India has proposed deploying 4,00,000 electric
passenger cars by 2020. If this goal is accomplished by 2020, India will no longer
buy 120 million barrels of crude oil and emit 4 million tons of Carbon dioxide.
The volume of charging issues compared to electric vehicles will increase as the
demand for them expands. The benefits, prospective services, and uses of electric
cars in V2G mode are discussed in this study, as well as the challenges and
concerns that emerge while recharging an electric motor from the network. The
impact of electric car uptake on the transmission network is investigated using
Matlab Simulink to explore how different electrical characteristics including dc
bus voltage, amperage, active power, voltage regulation, distortions, and power
factor interact. 40 A vector control approach for voltage source converters is
developed for grid stabilization versus electric car infiltration. The control
approach utilized here offers a rapid dynamic characteristic, eliminates
harmonics, and increases power factor with stable dc bus voltage. The approach
illustrated here will be very beneficial for rapid dc charging of electric car
batteries. Battery modelling, characterized as the identification of attributes from
a company's discharge properties, is a rapid and efficient approach that may be
utilized for Li-Ion, Ni-Mh, and Lead-acid cells.

Monika (2019), in their analysis “A STUDY ON CUSTOMER PERCEPTION

TOWARDS E-VEHICLES IN BANGALORE”, discuss the importance of e-
vehicles. Every day, we come across a plethora of topics and articles emphasising
the value of electric vehicles and how governments around the world are enacting
policies to encourage them to minimise reliance on oil, reduce greenhouse gas
emissions, and boost air quality. The Indian Automobile Industry reported a
record selling of 24.6 per cent growth in commercial vehicles as of August 30,
2018, and these statistics are reason enough to roll up our sleeves and do
something about it. This paper aims to capture people's opinions, feelings, and
perceptions about vehicle knowledge and willingness to purchase them to
maintain the environmental sustainability. Vehicle users in Bangalore are being
polled for information. The responses are fed into SPSS Version 25 for review
and confirmation of the claims, with a sample size of (n=120). Customers' levels
of knowledge and their likelihood to buy and use E-vehicles are investigated
using correlation analysis. Customer’s
levels of knowledge of government initiatives for E-transportation in India are
also examined in the report.

Montian and Suthikarnnarunai (2018) worked on “An Empirical Study of Key

Factors Influencing Consumer’s Purchase Intention Towards Electric Vehicle
in Bangkok Metropolis”. Electric Vehicles (EVs) are indeed a new vehicle
technology that is rapidly developing to assist tackle the mounting problems of
power, carbon emissions, and global warming. The goal of this study was to look
at the links between individual variables and variables that impact electric vehicle
buying intentions in Bangkok. The interviews were sent to 50 people in Bangkok
Metropolis via an online survey, and appropriate statistical data were analyzed
using the relevant statistics: values, proportions, standard deviation and variance,
and the chi-squared test. As per the results of the questionnaire items,
infrastructure and financial factors were absolutely critical, with average values
of 4.60 and 4.50, between, and effectiveness, government assistance, efficient
market hypothesis awareness, ecological consequences, and communication
understanding were moderately important, with average values of 0.47, 4.06,
4.02, 4.00, and 3.68, combined. Additionally, the relationships between
demographic characteristics and future EV purchase decision found that gender,
age, employment, highest degree of degree, and monthly salary have no
significant impact on future EV purchasing behaviour. Researchers may be able
to use the conclusions reached to help them design a new model for estimating
future EV adoption.
Motwani and Patil(2019) conducted a study on “CUSTOMER BUYING
INTENTION TOWARDS ELECTRIC VEHICLE IN INDIA” discussing
various intentions of customer buying towards electric vehicles in India. Electric
vehicles are a modern mode of transportation that emits no emissions, emits no
noise, and is an environmentally friendly mode of transportation. India is a major
market for electric vehicles, and the government's goal of becoming an electric
vehicle nation by 2030 is lofty. To achieve this, a study was conducted to assess
the public acceptance of electric vehicles and their effect on the automotive
industry. In this research, we sought to learn about people's opinions and
knowledge of electric vehicles, as well as their reactions to some of the vehicle's
flaws and whether or not they would support it wholeheartedly. To increase the
adoption of electric vehicle among the masses Government of India launched the
FAME scheme. Almost every car manufacturer in the world offers at least one
electric vehicle, and public acceptance of electric vehicles is increasingly
increasing around the world. Several measures in favour of electric mobility have
been implemented, and the results so far have been encouraging. Even though it
is an ambitious and long path, it is possible to accomplish it with a detailed policy
strategy. Policies must be introduced to prevent the continued use of gasoline
vehicles, and new programmes must be implemented to encourage the use of
electric vehicles. This research used nine independent factors related to electric
car characteristics to create a regression model for predicting consumer
purchasing behaviour. R software was utilized for the analysis. Mobility and
recharging characteristics were found to be the most important factors, while
RTO norms were found to be the least important factor influencing the purchase
of electric cars, according to the report. The model developed as a result of our
research was 88 per cent accurate, and thus can be used to predict consumer
purchasing behaviour. This research is crucial for companies looking to introduce
electric vehicles in India.

Prachi and Goswami (2020) in their research journal “Attitude of People

towards Electric Vehicles and Problems in Acceptability” traces People's
Attitudes Toward Electric Vehicles and Acceptability Issues.EVs are electric
vehicles that were first introduced to the global market a long time ago. Many
countries are already working hard to improve their infrastructure. Currently, as
most countries are setting targets for EV adoption and many are falling short, the
government must step in and ease the rules for EVs so that people can take
advantage of the FAME incentives. We need advancements in electric vehicles
over their predecessors, as well as an increase in electric driving range. In India,
the cost is the most important factor. So, how does the government proceed?
Several significant information gaps have been identified. To begin with, there is
conflicting evidence of the efficacy of government incentives because citizens are
still unwilling to pay too much rather than switch to ICE vehicles. Second, it's not
that people are unwilling to wait; they've shown promise, but the actual-to-action
gap is too wide. This paper examines key factors that will influence EV adoption
in India, as well as issues with acceptability.

Pretty, Ali and Nazneen(2018), in their scientific research “A Study of

Consumer Perception and Purchase Intention of Electric Vehicles”, aims at the
electric vehicle‘s purchase intention and consumer perception. The combination
of India's skilled and semiskilled technical base, a huge customer base, and lower
production and labour costs has enticed almost all global electric vehicle
manufacturers and component suppliers, including Bosch, AVL, and Cummins,
to launch operations in India. To better understand the commercial success and
purchasing intentions of electric vehicles among Indians, researchers must look
into the factors that influence customer acceptance. Individual perceptions on
dimensions such as environmental concerns, cost, confidence, technological
innovation, infrastructure, and social acceptance all influence car buyers'
purchasing decisions. The findings show that environmental issues and consumer
confidence in technology are antecedent factors for perceptions of electric vehicle
purchasing, with cost, infrastructure, and social acceptance providing adoption
blowback. Thus, the government must take the lead in promoting electric vehicle
sales by developing environmental policies, infrastructure, and discounted vehicle
costs, as well as lowering the bank rate of interest.

Rezvani, Jansson and Bodin(2015), in their article “Advances in consumer

electric vehicle adoption research: A review and research agenda” The
deployment of commercial electric vehicles is described. Considering the
purported benefits of electrification the light-duty fleet of trucks for the 43
climate, the number of electric cars (EVs) in use remains small. One reason for
the low widespread adoption is that customer perception of EVs have a big role in
their acceptability. This article gives a comprehensive analysis of the elements
that impact customer satisfaction of plug-in electric cars, as well as an outline of
the theoretical perspectives that have been employed to help understand customer
intents and adoption behaviors. Additionally, we recognize present research's
flaws and deficiencies, as well as sectors where future study may be beneficial.

Tu and Yang(2019) conducted a study “Key Factors Influencing Consumers’

Purchase of Electric Vehicles” It discusses the primary aspects that influence
customers' decisions to buy electric vehicles. While fast worldwide economic and
technical progress has benefited human civilization, it has also had disastrous
consequences for the global natural climate. As a result, humanity are taking
climate change and long-term sustainability seriously. One of the options to
environmental challenges is the use of new energy vehicles. After the General
Office of the State Council released the Energy Saving and New Energy Vehicle
Industry Development Plan (2012–2020), the Chinese government agreed on a
policy of pure electric driving technology. China's electric car sector has
continuously expanded, making it the world's largest market for electric vehicles.
As a result, study into China's present electric car status is vital and serves as a
baseline for other countries. As a result, building low-carbon, energy-efficient,
and intelligent electric cars is a critical issue for mitigating environmental
impacts. This research uses a theoretical framework predicated on the idea of
anticipated action (TPB), technology adoption model (TAM), and innovation
illusion theory to analyze the primary elements influencing customers' purchases
of electric cars (IDT). According to the findings, it is reasonable to apply the key
factor model developed in this study to customers' perceived behavioral control
about the purchase of an electric car. (1) According to the structural model,
purchasers' control over the assets available to buy electric vehicles does have the
largest effect on their perceived behavioural control, while consumer counselling
viewpoints from their environment also have a significant impact on their based
on behavioral intention to buy electric vehicles modelling (SEM) study findings.
Buyers' environmental awareness and understanding of technological items
would also influence their behavior. (2) In terms of behavior, customers are more
likely to support the purchase of powered mobility if they feel that electric
vehicles are more beneficial on a private, ecological, or state and federal level, or
if they perceive that using electric vehicles is easier and more convenient.
Consumers view electric vehicles as cutting-edge technological items that
function comparably to traditional automobiles in terms of handling activity and
maintenance costs. (3) Customers' attitudes and behaviors toward electric car
purchases are untouched by the opinions of group members, colleagues,
coworkers, or supervisors in terms of law. Theoretically, key factors influencing
consumer spending of electric vehicles apply for not only the design and
manufacturing of electric vehicles that better meet market requirements, and
moreover serve as an underpinning theory for the popularization of electric cars
and a mentor for customer choice and buying. As a result, the administration and
relevant companies should consider increasing public knowledge of electric cars
and establishing more enticing battery and charging plans in order to attract
consumers and support the auto industry's long-term success.

Tupe, Kishore and Johnvieira(2020), put forth “THE CONSUMER

PERCEPTION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN INDIA” India's stance on
electric vehicles is summed up in this phrase. Due to the current depletion of
fossil energy and price increases, an alternate power source to power the
automobile is necessary. As a reaction to the national growth and climate, India's
car industry is contemplating electric automobiles. Although administrations are
putting in place steps to encourage the usage of electric vehicles, EV business
model is currently poor. The intrinsic growth of electric automobiles in India, as
well as consumer sentiments toward them, will be examined in this study.

Wang and Zhou(2019), conducted a study on “Factors Influencing the

Purchase Willingness towards Electric Vehicles in China”. Because China is
concerned about the environment, it is establishing rules to stimulate the sale of
electric vehicles. Additionally, China is one of the biggest economies for electric
automobiles, with significant development potential. As a result, the purpose of
this research is to investigate the factors that impact Chinese customers'
propensity to purchase electric automobiles. Electric vehicles are not extremely
cheap systems that support users to spend carefully before purchasing, so this
study examines the six essential criteria of electrical vehicles driving range,
enables a company, purchase cost, government financial incentives, individual
environmental attitude, and interpreted social impact using theoretical framework.
This study uses a quantitative method and performs a survey to analyse this topic.
Based on 249 online surveys from Chinese consumers, this study utilizes SPSS to
run a regression analysis to examine the six decisive criteria. The study results
suggest that battery technology, administration government subsidies, individual
concern for the environment, and interpreted potential pressure all have a 45
considerable impact on Chinese shoppers' intentions to invest electric vehicles,
but that the spectrum of electric mobility or the expense of acquisition do not.
Furthermore, this study presents a review on the adoption of electric cars by
providing an empirical backdrop of China, analysing rational choice theory, and
recognizing projected social power. The report also gives suggestions to electric
car makers and the Chinese political systems on how to improve their products.

Yong and Park (2017), in their paper “A qualitative comparative analysis on

factors affecting the deployment of electric vehicles”, Numerous aspects of
electric car deployment are discussed. Electric cars are aggressively promoted in
many nations throughout the world to solve environmental protection laws on
carbon dioxide emissions and depletion of natural resources. Nevertheless, the
rate of adoption of electric cars varies per nation. What are the underlying reasons
for EV affirmation? To address the issue, the FCA is used to examine variables
impacting the installation of electric cars and to design policies favoring the
development of electric vehicles. Finally, several beneficial measures, such as tax
exemptions and purchase subsidies, are summarized.

Zhang, Yu and Zou (2011), in their article “Analyzing public awareness and
acceptance of alternative fuel vehicles in China: The case of EV” analyse the
consumers of China. This paper is intended to analyse the awareness that
consumers have of electric vehicles (EV) and the factors that most likely affect
the choice of EVs for consumers in China. 299 respondents from different driving
schools in Nanjing conducted a comprehensive questionnaire survey. The factors
that contribute to consumer acceptance of electrical electricity, buying time and
purchasing price were identified in 3 Binary Logistic Regression Models. The
results suggest that if the consumer chooses an EV, the number of driving
licences, the number of vehicles, government policies and fuel price will be
important; the timetable of consumers' purchases of an EV will be influenced by
their academic degree, yearly earnings, number of vehicles, government policies,
peer opinions and tax incentives. These findings will help to understand the
buying behaviour of EVs from consumers and have a strong policy effect on EVs
in China.

Massimo Ceraolo and Giovanni Pede (2001) conducted a study on

“Techniques for estimating the residual range of an electric vehicle” provided a
method for estimating the mileage that can be reached during electric car travels
based on the vehicle's current level of charge. The algorithm considers the
complexities of electrochemical battery behavior, with a focus on rechargeable
batteries, including the primary concerns associated with various driving
approaches.

Ma Xianmin (2002) presented a paper on “Propulsion system control and

simulation of electric vehicle in MATLAB software environment” is a
revolutionary propulsion system design plan for electric vehicles with high power
density requirements. The theoretical analysis numerical simulations of electric
vehicles are first created based on the vehicle dynamic behavior, after which the
entire system is separated into seven block diagrams based on power flow, and
numerical simulations are created in the MATLAB language. The simulation
findings are confirmed in a PDM AC-AC converter, demonstrating that the
proposed approach is suitable for electric vehicles.

Su-Hau et al (2004) in their study “Novel integrated management system

design of electric motorcycles” emphasized the extremely reliable use of residual
energy, and presented a management framework for electric engines. The power-
saving processor, efficiency subsystem, and several hardware protection
techniques are all part of this organisational structure. The energy storage system
serves as a superintendent, overseeing all battery-related events such as residual
capacity estimate and stability control.

Wong et al (2006) conducted a study on “Traffic-Constrained Multi objective

Planning of Electric-Vehicle Charging Station” The improved fuel cells for
HEV but instead PHEV implementations were discussed, and the lifespan costs of
various types of cars were quantified. To characterize the functionality needs and
costs of all components in automobiles, universal formulations were devised.
Their findings imply that lead-acid batteries can be made to match the HEV and
PHEV vehicle life cycle criteria.

Holms et al, (2010) explained in their report “Topology Generation for Hybrid
Electric Vehicle Architecture Design” detailed how electric vehicles function
and related them to traditional internal combustion engines and hybrid electric
vehicles. The paper went into great length into the benefits and drawbacks of
electric cars, as well as the technique's future prospects.

Santini et al. (2015) in their paper “Total cost of ownership of electric vehicles
compared to conventional vehicles: A probabilistic analysis and projection
across market segments” included a summary of federal support for Electric
vehicles. This research was the only one in the review that took into account the
influence of climate variability in three separate categories: intermediate,
extreme, and cold. These considerations are critical considering, as per Argonne
National Laboratory test results, surrounding temperature can reduce on-road EV
ranges by up to 50%. These authors discovered a measurable difference in the
proportions of EVs phases in other research.

Hardman and Tal (2016) conducted a study on “A review of consumer

preferences of and interactions with electric vehicle charging infrastructure”
The goal of this study was to figure out who is buying high-end BEVs, why they
are buying them, and how significant monetary incentives are about this bunch of
high buyers. Environmental sustainability and technical motives are causes for
high-end car adoption, according to this survey, and these advancements bring a
new sector of purchasers into the marketplace.

Findings
The following findings were derived from different analysis.

 Derived from Percentage Analysis

 The mean age and the median age is 36.28 and 27.61.
 The standard deviation for age is 2.47 and age ranged from a
minimum of 14 to and a maximum of 75.
 The age was normally distributed with more people at the centre.
 The respondents were approximately evenly distributed in case of
gender marking 59.2% for females and 40.8% for males.
 There were respondents with different educational qualification.
Among the 120 respondents, 52 % were graduates, 32%
postgraduates, 10% professionals, 3% doing their higher
secondary education and no high school students were responded.
 The majority of the respondents were salaried employees
marking 43.3% and others comprised of students (37.5%),
professional (11.7%), self-employed (6.7%) and the rest includes
home makers (0.8%).
 The family income of the respondents were recorded and found
majority of them have between two to five lakhs family income
per annum marking (34.2%) and six to ten lakhs (31.7%). Other
respondents have income around less than two lakhs (25.8%),
eleven to fifteen lakhs (5.8%) and more than fifteen lakhs (2.5%).
 Among the respondents, Among the respondents, 35% prefer

 gasoline, 21% prefer plug-in hybrid vehicles and 20% prefer

Battery EV. It shows that there is a chance of growing preference
for electric vehicles and it has got a bright future.
 Among the respondents, around 72% of them use a vehicle daily.
 Less than 7% do not prefer a vehicle at all whereas 14% uses
around three to four days and 7% uses vehicles once a week.This
shows that people are inclined to vehicles so there is a chance for
the success of the electric vehicle.
 It is inferred that 30% of respondents thinks that average range of
electric vehicle with full charge is up to 100 km whereas 27% up
to 300km, 22% up to 200 km and 13% up to 50km. Around 8% of
respondents thinks EV can travel more than 300 km with full
charge.
 The majority of the respondents have more than two vehicles
which constitute 48% of respondents and 24% of them have more
than two vehicles. Around 24% of respondents have one vehicle
and a small per cent that is around 4% do not have vehicles.
 When analyzing the factors influencing electric vehicle purchase,
the highest mean value is 4.47 for financial factors and can be
inferred as the most influencing factor for electric vehicle
purchase.
 The most affected barrier was found with the highest mean value
and get 4.30 for infrastructural barriers and can be inferred as the
most hindering factor for electric vehicle purchase.

 Derived from Chi-Square Tests

 The chi-square test shows that there is no significant

influence in the awareness level of consumers. This shows
that due to technological advancements and wide use of
social media is also aware of electric vehicles. All
categories of people are well aware of the possible
emergence of electric vehicles as their daily transport
mechanism.

 Derived from One-way Anova

  When the perception regarding future demand is
questioned it shows that there isn ‘t much difference
between future demand and income levels. It indicates that
the future demand has nothing to do with the various levels
of income of people.

Suggestions

While analyzing the data few suggestions have been derived. They are:

 People are surely looking for a green environment and they are ready to accept
electric vehicle but it is possible only if the infrastructure barrier is reduced.
What makes people reluctant is the reduced number of charging stations and the
time taken for charging the vehicle. So the number of charging stations should
be increased.

 Another suggestion to be put forward is to increase the awareness among the

people. People are quite aware of the availability of electric vehicle but they are
not aware of the incentives, government support and long term advantages.
People are doubtful since they are not aware of the possibilities and benefits. If
done properly electric vehicle could become one of the options when people
intend to buy or change their vehicle.

 Electric vehicles have evolved drastically with advancements in technology.

Further development should come in respect of battery charging capacity,
speedy charging, ease of maintenance.

 Another aspect found out was the thought of changing the battery after few
years hinder the purchasing intention. People believe that the benefits achieved
by saving the fuel charge are gone with the need for changing the battery.
Awareness should be created in this aspect as well as the battery should be
advanced.

 Another suggestion is to improve the credibility of electric vehicles. For that, it

 would be nice if Tesla or other reputed brands could build their manufacturing
unit in Kerala or nearby places.

 The key influencing factor found out was financial factors. So it is

recommended to improve these factors to capture the minds of people.

 Introduction of high energy density material would also be helpful like graphene
rather than led Li-ion battery. Graphene research has been going on since 2000.

Conclusion

Electric vehicles have high prospects in Kerala if the market is tapped. People are ready
to try out and more concerned about sustainability. If adequate infrastructure facilities
are provided with increased awareness people will buy Electric vehicles. The
automobile sector is undergoing a paradigm transformation on a global scale. The
transition to electric propulsion is becoming imperative because to the quick depletion
of fossil fuels, the quick rise in energy expenditures, the environmental effect of
mobility, and worries about climate change. As the volume of vehicles grows, so does
the influence on pollution levels, the nation's reliance on crude oil, and the need for
electric vehicles. The report concentrated on the feasibility of electric cars in the future,
with a special emphasis on Ernakulam. The answers of the questionnaire appeared to be
vital for the completion of our project, since they were favorable and aligned with our
expectations. From the study it is understood that majority of the respondents prefer to
buy electric vehicles. The increasing vehicle range, low cost, better fuel efficiency, low
noise level would drive the electric vehicle sales.

The environmental advantages of electric cars are also measured in this study. All
potential buyers believe that an electro vehicle's zero emissions result in improved air
quality and fewer health issues. Electric cars will emit fewer greenhouse gases if they
are recharged using renewable energy. The commercialization of such items will play
a critical role in moving us closer to a greener environment and a more sustainable
management of natural resources.

In thus study various reasons that lead to the slow pace in the growth of Electric
vehicles. Lack of availability, lack of charging stations, high price, lack of awareness,
longer recharging time were the significant obstacles to widespread electric vehicle
diffusion. By overcoming these factors, the fast growth of the electric vehicle industry
can be achieved. As transformation to EVs is inevitable in India and this can create a
great opportunity for the growth of the automotive industry in the country. India has
pledged to reduce carbon emission intensity by 33-35% by 2030.As introduction of
electric vehicles in India lies at the core of sustainable mobility solutions.

The country's numerous incentives for the development of electric cars are also
examined in this research. The market for zero-emission automobiles has surged as
authorities' awareness of the importance of a healthier environment has grown. The
majority of potential buyers believe that the government should provide greater
incentives. Electric car sales would be boosted by stringent government regulations
and assistance in the form of grants and funding, tax credits, as well as other non-
financial considerations.

In conclusion, the electric car transformation will help society as a whole. Welcoming
the electric car revolution would facilitate not only the ecosystem, but also global
health and technical innovation, which is the foundation of civilization. It is past time
to evolve with the times and prepare for the future.

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