OVERCOMING THE BARRIERS TO THE ADOPTION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN BULGARIA

Abstract

Growing greenhouse gas emissions are a primary cause of global warming and climate change, with transportation accounting for the largest proportion. Many countries have started to develop strategies to promote the development of sustainable transport technologies. In terms of fossil fuel independence and reducing carbon emissions, electric vehicles (EVs) are a highly developed and efficient solution with growing popularity. This study looks at the major socio-economic and perception-related obstacles to the much broader adoption of electric vehicles in the Bulgarian market. The report is based on a questionnaire survey of a convenience sample of over 500 responses, conducted at the start of 2022 in order to evaluate the opinion, impressions, and attitudes of Bulgarian citizens toward electric cars. Also of interest is their willingness to join the transition process from conventional vehicles to highly innovative electric cars, demonstrating the behavior of conscious "green-oriented" consumers. A statistical analysis of the data was carried out with the help of IBM SPSS statistics. The findings of this study can be valuable for managers, and stakeholders in validating the principles of the green economy and can contribute to developing national policies in the fields of transportation, energy, and the environment.