Pro-environment consumer behaviour and electric vehicle adoptions: a comparative regional meta-analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Numerous studies have explored the relationship between the environment and the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs); however, a consensus has not been reached among empirical findings. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive meta-regression analysis by synthesizing and scrutinizing data from existing literature to identify potential sources of heterogeneity among effect sizes in individual studies. To achieve this goal, we collected 429 estimates from 65 previously published studies spanning the period from 1998 to 2021. We investigate the connection between pro-environmental consumer behaviour and EV adoption at the aggregate level and compare this relationship across three distinct regions: North America, Western Europe, and emerging markets. Our research employs advanced empirical techniques, including Bayesian model averaging, frequentist model averaging, and weighted average least squares. The outcome of our analysis reveals a positive, albeit relatively weak synthesized effect of environmental factors on EV adoption. Notably, our meta-analysis findings indicate that the impact of environmental concerns on EV adoption varies significantly depending on the specific type of EV being considered. Consumers prefer versatile hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles due to fuel flexibility, especially in areas where battery electric vehicle charging infrastructure is scarce.