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Understanding electric vehicle adoption: The role of information frictions and heterogeneous beliefs

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  • Fitzpatrick, Aoife Claire

Abstract

In 2023, the transportation sector in Europe contributed 25% of CO2 emissions, with almost no reduction since 2010. Despite government policies promoting decarbonization, public adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) remains limited. This study, involving 5,500 German participants from a pre-registered survey and experiment, identifies information frictions and mixed beliefs about EV sustainability as key barriers. Two treatments-highlighting EVs' environmental benefits and public policies-both increased participants' likelihood of choosing an EV, but only the environmental treatment raised willingness to pay more. The findings underscore the need for clear, accurate information to complement policy efforts, reducing disinformation and amplifying the impact of initiatives to meet climate goals.

Suggested Citation

  • Fitzpatrick, Aoife Claire, 2025. "Understanding electric vehicle adoption: The role of information frictions and heterogeneous beliefs," SAFE Working Paper Series 453, Leibniz Institute for Financial Research SAFE.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:safewp:324654
    DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.5391851
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D12 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Empirical Analysis
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions
    • G18 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Government Policy and Regulation
    • G53 - Financial Economics - - Household Finance - - - Financial Literacy

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