What's Holding Them Back? Investigating Resistance to Electric Vehicle Adoption

The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is essential for reducing environmental impacts and fostering sustainable transportation.However, despite their economic and ecological benefits, EV adoption rates remain low, particularly in developing countries like India.This study investigates the barriers to EV adoption using Innovation Resistance Theory (IRT), focusing on functional and psychological factors that impede consumer acceptance.A survey of potential EV users across five major Indian metropolitan cities was conducted, and data was analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM).The findings reveal that usage, tradition, value, and risk barriers significantly influence consumer intentions to adopt EVs, while image barriers do not show any notable impact.This research contributes to the literature by applying IRT to a developing context, addressing a gap in studies that predominantly focus on developed countries.Practical implications include strategies for policymakers to improve charging infrastructure and industry stakeholders to address consumer concerns around EV performance and usability.