Hierarchical Behavioral Models: A SOR-TPB Framework for Electric Vehicle Adoption in China

Background and Aim: Despite the rapid expansion of China’s electric vehicle (EV) market, fueled by robust policy support and technological innovation, understanding consumer adoption dynamics is crucial for developing effective policies. Previous research often isolates particular drivers, such as subsidies or psychological traits, while neglecting the integrated effects of multidimensional policy frameworks and cognitive constructs. This study reconceptualizes the integration of the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) model and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) by proposing a hierarchical, theory-driven framework that clarifies the indirect pathways connecting policy mix, perceived value, psychological factors, and EV purchasing behavior. Materials and Methods: This study employs a reconceptualized second-order framework to connect first-order constructs to behavioral outcomes. In total, 658 valid responses were collected from potential electric vehicle (EV) consumers in five strategically selected regions across China. Utilizing a two-stage Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), the study rigorously assesses measurement robustness and structural relationships within a multi-layered SOR–TPB model. Results: The findings reveal that the policy mix significantly enhances both perceived value (β = 0.686, p < 0.001) and psychological factors (β = 0.398, p < 0.001), with direct implications for purchase behavior (β = 0.318, p < 0.001). Furthermore, perceived value exerts a strong influence on psychological factors (β = 0.536) and purchase intention (β = 0.433), whereas psychological factors significantly mediate intention (β = 0.480), which subsequently affects behavior (β = 0.315). Importantly, direct effects from the policy mix or perceived value to intention, and from psychological factors to behavior, were insignificant, underscoring the predominance of indirect mediation as the principal behavioral pathway. Conclusion: This study provides theoretical and methodological contributions by reconceptualizing second-order constructs in EV adoption research. It emphasizes aligning multidimensional policy instruments with consumers' cognitive mechanisms to optimize behavioral outcomes. The proposed hierarchical SOR–TPB model presents a robust analytical framework for future behavioral research and offers actionable insights for policymakers and organizations seeking to expedite the sustainable transition to electric mobility in emerging markets.