Evolving preferences in sustainable transportation: a comparative analysis of consumer segments for electric vehicles across Europe

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore and segment consumer preferences for electric and hybrid vehicles in Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands and Turkey, focusing on understanding the various factors that influence consumer decisions in these markets.

Design/methodology/approach

Using latent class analysis (LCA) on data collected through online surveys and discrete choice experiments, this research categorizes consumers into distinct segments. The approach allows for a nuanced understanding of how various factors such as income level, fuel cost, age, CO₂ emissions, purchase price, vehicle range, policy policies and environmental concerns interact with shape consumer preferences.

Findings

The analysis uncovers significant heterogeneity in consumer preferences for electric and hybrid vehicles across Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands and Turkey, revealing four key segments: “Eco-Driven Innovators,” “Value-Focused Pragmatists,” “Tech-Savvy Early Adopters” and “Reluctant Traditionalists.” “Eco-Driven Innovators” prioritize environmental benefits and are less sensitive to price, demonstrating a strong inclination toward vehicle CO₂ emissions and policy policies. “Value-Focused Pragmatists” weigh economic factors heavily, showing a sharp interest in fuel costs and purchase prices but are open to considering electric and hybrid vehicles if they present clear long-term savings. Technology-savvy early adopters are attracted by the latest technological advancements in vehicles, regardless of the type, and are motivated by factors beyond just environmental concerns or cost savings. Lastly, “Reluctant Traditionalists” exhibit minimal interest in electric and hybrid vehicles due to concerns over charging infrastructure and upfront costs. This detailed segmentation illustrates the diverse motivations and barriers influencing consumer choices, from governmental policies and environmental concerns to individual financial considerations and technological appeal.

Originality/value

This study stands out for its pioneering application of LCA to dissect the complexity of consumer preferences for electric and hybrid vehicles, a methodological approach not widely used in this research domain. Using LCA, the authors are able to uncover nuanced consumer segments, each with distinct preferences and motivations, providing a depth of insight into market dynamics that traditional analysis methods may overlook. This approach enables a more granular understanding of how diverse factors – ranging from environmental concerns to economic considerations and technological attributes – interact to shape consumer choices in different countries. The findings not only fill a critical gap in the existing literature by mapping the intricate landscape of consumer preferences, but also offer a novel perspective on strategizing market interventions. Therefore, the application of LCA enriches the discourse on sustainable transportation, offering stakeholders, manufacturers, policymakers and researchers – a refined toolkit for navigating the evolving market dynamics and fostering the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Citation

Balcioglu, Y.S., Sezen, B. and İşler, A.U. (2024), "Evolving preferences in sustainable transportation: a comparative analysis of consumer segments for electric vehicles across Europe", Social Responsibility Journal, Vol. 20 No. 9, pp. 1664-1696. https://doi.org/10.1108/SRJ-12-2023-0713