Factor Influencing Consumer’s Adoption of Electric Car in Malaysia

Abstract

The main purpose of this research is to uncover the factors influencing consumers in Malaysia to embrace electric vehicles (EV). This study aims to provide valuable insights for infrastructure providers, car manufacturers, and regulators, enhancing their understanding of the driving forces behind EV adoption in Malaysia. This study seeks to establish a relationship between environmental factors, price of electric cars, and availability of charging stations in relation to electric vehicle. To achieve this, we employ a quantitative research method. Survey questionnaires of around 400 sets have been distributed online due to convenience purposes of collecting and analysing the data sample. For data analysis, we utilized the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) guides the selection of psychological variables in this study, including attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control. The findings reveal that the price of EVs and environmental factors significantly influence consumer adoption. This finding contradicts some previous research and highlights the need for more extensive charging infrastructure to promote EV adoption. The study's regression analysis indicates that environmental factors have the most substantial impact on consumer adoption, followed by car pricing. While the availability of charging stations is essential, it does not seem to significantly influence consumer adoption in Malaysia. This study provide recommendation for policymakers and car manufacturers to provide incentives and subsidies to lower EV prices, implementing tax breaks for EV consumers, and collaborating to enhance charging station accessibility. An extensive awareness campaign on the environmental benefits of EV adoption is also advised.