Electric mobility in an oil-producing developing nation: Empirical assessment of electric vehicle adoption

Abstract

Electric vehicle (EVs) usage has become imperative owing to its merits in combating environmental pollution, non-renewable resource depletion, and advancing environmental sustainability. Notwithstanding, there is a lack of enthusiasm and interest in adopting and using electric vehicles in Africa. EV acceptance and proliferation hinge pivotally on consumer attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors. This underscores the need to inquire about the adoption intention of electric vehicles in Africa. Empirical studies on the adoption of EVs in Africa remain limited. Consequently, the study investigates EV adoption intention in Ghana, – a crude oil-endowed African nation. The study expanded the technology acceptance model (TAM) with imposition perception, low-carbon commuting campaigns, and status symbolism. With 512 responses, a structural equation model (SEM) was applied in verifying the hypothetical statements. Attitude, perceived ease of use, and status symbolism positively influenced EV adoption intention, as imposition perception showed an adverse impact. Low-carbon commuting campaign was insignificant in impacting EV adoption intention. Status symbolism insignificantly impacted attitude. Perceived-ease-of-use impacted attitude. Attitude fully mediated low carbon commuting campaigns and EV adoption intention. The analysis also indicated that perceived-ease-of-use partially mediated the impact of imposition perception and status symbol on EV adoption intention. Policy initiatives are enumerated for improving EV adoption and proliferation.