Something for every one? - An investigation of people’s intention to use different types of shared electric vehicle

Abstract

Whereas most shared mobility providers offer one type of shared electric or conventional vehicle, electric mobility hubs, or eHUBs, offer users access to a range of modes in publicly accessible locations. An apparent strength of eHUBs lies in their appeal to different user groups that may have vastly different mobility needs. However, to date, there is little evidence to support this claim. Consequently, based on a questionnaire sampling>2,500 potential eHUB users across five European countries, several of the factors that may influence the likely adoption of eHUBs were investigated using a multiple linear regression approach. In particular, factors such as respondents’ demographic characteristics, travel behaviour, and attitudes based on Diffusion of Innovation Theory and the Theory of Planned Behaviour, were considered as predictors of the intention to use either shared e-bikes, e-cargobikes, e-cars, and/or e-scooters. This analysis revealed that the intention to use different types of vehicles is indeed predicted by different combinations of factors, with holding a positive attitude towards shared mobility emerging as the strongest predictor across the board. Beyond attitudes, younger respondents, as well as regular cyclists and public transport users, expressed a greater interest in using all modes, except e-cars. Finally, current car drivers positively anticipate using shared electric cars. Taken together, our results suggest that the different shared electric modes offered by an eHUB may indeed appeal to different audiences, strengthening the case for shared mobility providers to diversify their fleets. However, the potential to replace trips by private car appears limited.