Examining the Determinants of Electric Vehicle Acceptance in Jordan: A PLS-SEM Approach

Abstract

Recently, technologies for electric mobility have developed rapidly. Since the introduction and spread of Electric Vehicles (EVs), several studies have attempted to investigate the benefits and risks that impact on the growth of the EV market by evaluating data gathered from various drivers. However, some variables were disregarded such as: Public Involvement, Knowledge of EVs, Perceived Risk, Behavioural Intention, and EV acceptance. These variables are considered vital when analysing the intention to use EVs. Therefore, this study compiles the above mentioned variables to evaluate their effect on the intention to use EVs in Jordan. 501 collected responses were examined using the Smart PLS-Structural Equation Model algorithm. In general, the analysis revealed high levels of EV acceptance. The study proposed twelve direct relationship hypotheses. Out of these hypotheses, ten hypotheses were supported and two were rejected. The final conclusions are that an increase in public involvement is associated with an increase in knowledge of EVs, and an increase in their perceived risk. Moreover, the knowledge of EVs has positively and significantly influenced the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, along with EV acceptance. However, no relationships were found between the following: 1. the knowledge of EVs and perceived risk; and 2. perceived risk and behavioural intention.