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Promoting Sustainable Transportation: Factors Influencing Battery Electric Vehicle Adoption Across Age Groups in Thailand

Author

Listed:
  • Natcha Limpasirisuwan

    (Department of Management, Faculty of Business Administration, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand)

  • Thanapong Champahom

    (Department of Management, Faculty of Business Administration, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand)

  • Sajjakaj Jomnonkwao

    (School of Transportation Engineering, Institute of Engineering, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand)

  • Vatanavongs Ratanavaraha

    (School of Transportation Engineering, Institute of Engineering, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand)

Abstract

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are a crucial innovation for achieving sustainable transportation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which are major contributors to global warming and climate change. While previous studies have explored attitudes towards BEV technology acceptance, few have examined the interplay of external factors such as government measures and adoption barriers in promoting sustainable mobility. This study addresses this gap by investigating the roles of government policies, usage obstacles and innovation diffusion in stimulating BEV purchase intentions, while applying the Innovative Diffusion Theory (IDT). Data from 3632 respondents in Thailand were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine causal relationships between factors. The results indicate that government policies supporting BEV users enhance innovation diffusion in society, leading to increased adoption intentions. Furthermore, effective policies help mitigate barriers to BEV usage, further encouraging adoption. The study also reveals that causal relationships of BEV usage intentions vary across age groups, highlighting the need for targeted approaches in promoting sustainable transportation. These findings contribute to the development of evidence-based policy recommendations to accelerate BEV adoption, supporting Thailand’s Carbon Neutrality goals and broader sustainable development objectives. By elucidating the complex dynamics of BEV adoption, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders working towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation sector.

Suggested Citation

  • Natcha Limpasirisuwan & Thanapong Champahom & Sajjakaj Jomnonkwao & Vatanavongs Ratanavaraha, 2024. "Promoting Sustainable Transportation: Factors Influencing Battery Electric Vehicle Adoption Across Age Groups in Thailand," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(21), pages 1-24, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:21:p:9273-:d:1506544
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Champahom, Thanapong & Wisutwattanasak, Panuwat & Chonsalasin, Dissakoon & Se, Chamroeun & Jomnonkwao, Sajjakaj & Ratanavaraha, Vatanavongs, 2025. "Comparing Electric Vehicle Adoption Intentions Across Vehicle Types in Thailand: An Extended UTAUT2 Model with Government Participation," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 163(C), pages 408-435.
    2. Limpasirisuwan, Natcha & Champahom, Thanapong & Dangbut, Adisorn & Watcharamaisakul, Fareeda & Jomnonkwao, Sajjakaj & Ratanavaraha, Vatanavongs, 2025. "Extending UTAUT2 for elderly high-speed rail adoption: Incorporating novel health and transportation independence moderators in an urban-rural comparative analysis," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 171(C), pages 933-959.
    3. Nikola Manev & Aleksandra Pyk & Monika Pendaroska & Artur Bartosik, 2025. "Electric Vehicle Adoption in Poland: Insights from Academia and Technically Educated Youth," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-16, June.
    4. Chih-Ming Tsai & Wen-Yang Kao & Wei-Chi Liu, 2025. "Navigating Sustainable Mobility in Taiwan: Exploring the Brand-Specific Effects of Perceived Green Attributes on the Green Purchase Intention for Battery Electric Vehicles," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-22, January.

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