Understanding Behavioral Shifts among Car owners in Kigali in Response to Electric Vehicle Adoption: A Theory of Planned Behavior Approach

The transportation sector is a major source of CO₂ emissions, with Kigali facing rising environmental challenges amid increasing motorization. Despite Rwanda’s policies promoting electric vehicles (EVs), adoption among private car owners remains low. This study uses the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to analyze behavioral factors affecting EV adoption in Kigali. Cross-sectional survey of 200 car owners assessed attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intentions, and actual adoption. Results show positive attitudes and supportive social norms, with perceived behavioral control as a key predictor. TPB constructs explained up to 58% of intention variance, which significantly predicted actual adoption, though only 28% had adopted EVs. Behavioral shifts included improved driving habits, lower maintenance, and greater environmental awareness. Major barriers were high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, technical support gaps, and social skepticism. The study highlight the need for integrated policies combining infrastructure development, financial incentives, awareness campaigns, and capacity building to foster EV uptake. These insights inform strategies to accelerate sustainable mobility transitions in Kigali and comparable urban contexts.