The use of the Preference Vector Method – Vector Space of Increments (PVM–VSI) in supporting the consumer decision related to the purchase of an electric car from the mini–segment

The article presents the potential application of the PVM–VSI (Preference Vector Method – Vector Space of Increments) approach to support decision–makers in solving decision–making problems involving the selection of one alternative from among several options. The decision alternatives are evaluated based on both quantitative and qualitative criteria. Consequently, it is essential to possess a body of knowledge regarding the considered alternatives. Equally important is that the evaluation of the alternatives in the analysed decision problem remains independent of the decision–maker’s personal preferences and opinions, thereby ensuring a relatively objective assessment. In this study, the PVM–VSI [4,14] method was applied to support the decision–making process related to the selection of a mini–segment electric vehicle by developing a ranking of such vehicles available on the Polish automotive market. The objective of the resulting ranking is to identify which vehicle best satisfies the utility requirements defined by the decision–maker, while also aligning with their preferences regarding both exterior and interior design. This article pursues two primary objectives. The first is to examine the current offering within the mini segment of the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. The second objective is to identify the electric vehicle within this segment that best meets the utility requirements and aesthetic preferences defined by a hypothetical consumer. The first objective was achieved through an analysis of the electric vehicle market, which revealed a limited availability of models in the mini electric car segment. Possible reasons for this situation are discussed in the conclusions. The second objective was addressed using the PVM-VSI method to investigate consumer preferences and to establish a ranking of selected alternatives within the aforementioned segment. The analysis indicated that the Fiat 500 most effectively fulfilled the consumer’s expectations with respect to the evaluation criteria.