How to reduce the need for large and long-range battery electric vehicles

• Analysis of stated preference in car size and powertrain of 1000 Swiss households. • Evidence shows carsharing and car rental services could reduce car size preference. • Providing charging at home could increase preference for low-range BEVs. In many countries, over half of new vehicle registrations are large cars, and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are often expected to match conventional cars in range. However, smaller cars with smaller batteries could suffice for daily travel while reducing emissions, raw material use, and pedestrian fatalities. This study employed a within- and between-subject design with 1000 participants from the German- and French-speaking populations of Switzerland. It examined how information on range needs, charging station availability, and carsharing access influences vehicle preferences. The findings suggest that secured home charging access is a key factor in shifting preferences from conventional cars and long-range BEVs to lower-range BEVs. Additionally, access to carsharing and rental services reduces preferences for larger cars. These results provide valuable insights for transport planners and policymakers in developing strategies to counter the trend of increasing vehicle size and range demands for BEVs.