Electric Revolution: Unplugging Consumer Choices in the Indian Mobility Landscape
摘要
Rapid urbanization and motorization bring congestion, air and noise pollution, and increased travel time. This scenario emphasizes the necessity of switching from petroleum-based vehicles to ones that emit less emissions and have smaller carbon footprint. Electric vehicles (EVs) are being considered by the auto industry as a potential remedy. Transition to EVs attempts to reduce carbon footprint and the price of importing oil in India. The Indian government and the business community, both appear strongly dedicated to this objective. Despite the implementation of EV policies by governments, there is relatively limited market penetration of EVs. The high initial costs, limited range, and insufficiency of infrastructure for charging EVs are presently deterring consumers from adopting them. This study aims to determine the potential demand for EVs (4-wheelers) in India by examining customer awareness, preference, and their intention to purchase. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire. A total of 417 responses were received from various Indian cities. The relationship between the demographic profile of respondents and the tendency to purchase EVs has been investigated using the Pearson chi-square test. The survey indicates that although currently people are a little hesitant to purchase EVs, they have great expectations for the product’s future in India.