CONSUMER PREFERENCE TOWARDS NEW ENERGY VEHICLES IN TAMILNADU

Abstract

Road Electric Vehicles (EVs) include a large range of vehicles from electric two - wheelers, three - wheelers (rickshaws), cars and electric buses. In addition, plug - in electric vehicles can be classified into two types: battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and plug - in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). BEVs have an electric motor in place of combustion engine and use electricity from the grid stored in batteries. Plug - in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) use batteries to power an electric motor and liquid fuel such as gasoline or diesel to power an internal combustion engine or other propulsion source. Widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) may contribute to the alleviation of problems such as environmental pollution, global warming and oil dependency. However, the current market penetration of EV is relatively low in spite of many governments implementing strong promotion policies. This paper presents a comprehensive review of studies on consumer preferences for EV, aiming to better inform policy-makers and give direction to further research. Finally, we discuss a research agenda to improve EV consumer preference studies and give recommendations for further research.