Evaluating the Socioeconomic and Infrastructural Factors Affecting Compressed Natural Vehicle Adoption in Tanzania

This study explores the determinants influencing the adoption and intensity of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) usage among vehicle owners in Morogoro Municipal, Tanzania. Using a cross-sectional research design and data collected from 240 randomly selected respondents through questionnaires and interviews, the study employed a double hurdle model to analyze the twostage decision-making process: the choice to adopt CNG and the extent of its usage. The findings reveal that gender, education level, distance to refueling stations, driving experience, cost perceptions, and attitudes significantly affect both adoption and usage. Male respondents and those with higher education were more likely to adopt and use CNG, while long distances to refueling stations and negative attitudes posed significant barriers. Awareness of CNG positively influenced adoption but not usage intensity. The perceived high cost of conversion and natural gas, despite rising petrol prices, also discouraged adoption. The study concludes that CNG adoption is influenced by a complex interplay of socio-economic, infrastructural, and behavioral factors. It recommends expanding CNG infrastructure, offering financial incentives for vehicle conversion, and implementing public awareness campaigns to reshape perceptions. These measures are essential to promote the use of CNG as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative fuel in Tanzania’s transport sector