From conventional transport modes to V2G-Enabled vehicles: an analysis of mode substitution behaviour

Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology enables electric vehicles (EVs) to function as both energy consumers and suppliers, potentially improving power grid stability while offering economic benefits to users. Before large-scale implementation, however, the viability of V2G must be assessed, specifically, the extent to which people are willing to adopt it. This study investigates people’s willingness to switch from their current mode of transport to two V2G-enabled options: private EVs with V2G, and carsharing EVs with V2G. To achieve this goal, a stated choice experiment was designed and conducted in the Netherlands. For the data analysis, we introduce a random-parameters rank-ordered logit model to capture preference heterogeneity and unobserved correlations between the two V2G options. The results indicate strong inertia towards retaining the current (status quo) travel mode compared with the two V2G alternatives. Cost savings from V2G participation significantly increase the likelihood of choosing both V2G options, whereas the minimum guaranteed battery range has a limited effect once trip-range requirements are satisfied. Preferences also differ systematically between respondents with different status quo travel modes and across socio-demographic groups. These findings support targeted policy design to accelerate V2G adoption.