Eco-Friendly Drive: Extending The Theory of Planned Behaviours Towards Electric Vehicle Adoption

Global carbon dioxide emissions have seen a drastic increase, with the United States, European Union, China, and India being the largest contributors. In response to this pressing issue, the United Nations has adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to combat poverty, protect the environment, and ensure global peace and prosperity. Malaysia has also experienced a rise in carbon dioxide emissions, particularly from energy consumption, which is largely attributed to fossil fuel usage. To address these challenges, the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into the Malaysian economy has emerged as a promising avenue for sustainable development and to support the SDGs. The Malaysian government has committed to promoting sustainability and inclusivity, with a goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Therefore, this study aims to understand the factors influencing consumer purchase intention towards EVs in Malaysia. The study is grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), which posits that behavioural intention is influenced by attitude towards the behaviour, subjective norm, and perceived behavioural control. Using a cross-sectional study design with a sample size of 250, the study targets individuals aged 18 and above, holding a driver's license, with driving experience, and currently non-electric vehicle users. The research employs multiple linear regression to test the hypotheses. The findings contribute significantly to knowledge by supporting government policies for improving EV adoption and providing insights for industry players on promoting EVs. Overall, the study aims to pave the way for a more sustainable transportation sector in Malaysia, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.