Factors of consumer adoption and purchase behaviour of electric vehicles in kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Measurement and evaluation

The present study aims at analyzing the various factors influencing consumer attitudes towards the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Saudi Arabia. The study evaluates consumer attitudes, their impact on shaping behaviours, and whether consumer intention mediates the relationship between consumer attitude and purchase behaviour towards EVs. This research employs a mixed-method approach, including literature review, surveys, and data analysis. It investigates EV adoption dimensions encompassing individual, social, economic, and environmental factors. Data collected from 397 current and potential EV owners in Saudi Arabia provide insights into their attitudes and behaviours. Survey findings indicate that in Saudi Arabia, safety rating, social influence, economic value, operating cost, and product variety significantly shape consumer attitudes and influence EV adoption. However, factors like range anxiety, charging infrastructure, environmental concern, and performance expectancy are less significant in affecting consumer attitudes toward EVs and their adoption. Investigating multiple dimensions and employing a mixed-method approach, the study enhances the existing knowledge of consumer attitudes toward EVs in the unique context of Saudi Arabia’s sustainable mobility transition. Policymakers and industry stakeholders can utilize these findings to expedite the shift to sustainable transportation in the Kingdom. This research also guides future investigations in this burgeoning field.