Motivators and Environmental Awareness for EV Adoption in Thailand

The global emissions from the transportation sector were nearly 7.7 GtCO2 in 2021. In Thailand, the transportation sector emitted 69 MtCO2 and consumed 27,460 ktoe of final energy consumption in the same year. Transitioning from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) to electric vehicles (EVs) can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, particularly PM2.5, in major metropolitan areas. However, the adoption of EVs in the early stages may affect consumers' considerations. This study aimed to investigate the motivators and environmental awareness for EV adoption in Thailand. An online questionnaire was conducted, and a total of 459 respondents participated. The results revealed that the top three motivators for respondents to consider EVs were the potential tax refund for purchasing an EV, lower charging costs compared to fuel costs for ICEVs, and lower operating costs for EVs compared to ICEVs. In terms of environmental awareness, respondents expressed concern about adapting to global warming and the environment, the potential for EVs to reduce air pollution, and a general concern for the environment. Based on the findings, individuals aged between 26 and 35 years old could be the key target group for early EV adoption.