Exploring interests amongst University of Malta students towards battery electric vehicles

Abstract

The European Union (EU) aims that by 2030 member states reduce greenhouse gas levels by 30% when compared to 1990 levels. Recently, electric vehicle (EV) demand has gained some momentum and many countries are witnessing a developing EV market. EU agreements and targets have been significantly important to encourage the shift from internal combustion engine vehicles to EVs in order to combat climate change. Despite the steady growth of EVs across Member States, Malta’s share of EVs is relatively low. In fact, Malta has exceeded vehicle saturation levels as internal combustion engine vehicles are continuously on the rise, while cleaner alternative transportation remains at its infancy. The main objective of this study is to identify the determinants that influence the demand for EVs amongst University of Malta students who have the potential to be the first cohort group that are willing to transition from conventional transport to electromobility.

A quantitative online survey is used to collect data from 494 University students. A Logit regression model is used to assess the role of the measured predictors on the intention to buy an EV. The empirical literature mostly focuses on the functional characteristics of the EV, specifically the driving range, recharging/refuelling time and charging infrastructure. Similarly, this study investigates attitudes towards key EV technology factors together with student demographics, driving characteristics and environmental concern.

This research identifies potential socio-technical barriers which are possibly hindering EV uptake in Malta. Although the majority of EVs satisfy driving range needs, this research has identified that range anxiety has a profound impact on individuals. On the other hand, charging an EV is not perceived as an inconvenience.

EVs are still in their early commercialization period and therefore EV users are mostly dependent on public charging rather than private charging. Results show that University students are biased towards vehicle brands, such that familiarity and/or trust with a vehicle brand is a major factor propelling EV diffusion. Looking ahead, EV technology will not be static and EV features such as the battery life, the driving range and the time needed to recharge an EV will eventually improve. In spite of this fact, the extent to which such technological improvements may affect the demand for EVs is difficult to predict. Implications of public policy and interventions for wider EV adoption amongst University students are consequently discussed.