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Determinants of mini-electric vehicle adoption: Insights from early-adopters in China

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  • Zhao, Danting
  • Liu, Yuandong
  • Zhu, Shaoxuan
  • Chi, Jinglei

Abstract

Mini-electric vehicles (mini-EVs) have gained popularity in China. However, there has been no research on this new vehicle type. This study fills this gap by examining the determinants and differences in adoption behavior between mini- and full-size EVs. An integrated method of binary logit regression and stepwise forward regression indicated that seven factors determine mini-EV adoption (battery type, travel purpose, commute time, travel demand, battery degradation anxiety, purchase price, and official top speed). Based on this, three profiles are identified for mini-EV adopters (high-cost, long-commute, and multi-purpose adopters), while four profiles are identified for full-size EV adopters (lithium iron phosphate—low demand, short-time commute, ternary lithium-ion—low cost, and ternary lithium-ion—high cost adopters) by latent profile analysis. It is also found that mini-EV adopters have common misperceptions about the vehicle's official top speed and rated seating capacity. This study provides fresh insights into mini-EVs and offers policy guidance for the diffusion of this new type of vehicle.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhao, Danting & Liu, Yuandong & Zhu, Shaoxuan & Chi, Jinglei, 2025. "Determinants of mini-electric vehicle adoption: Insights from early-adopters in China," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 163(C), pages 298-309.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:trapol:v:163:y:2025:i:c:p:298-309
    DOI: 10.1016/j.tranpol.2025.01.017
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