Factors Influencing Powertrain Technology Choice and Barriers to Electric Vehicle Adoption in Poland: Insights into Consumer Preferences and Challenges in the Green Transition

As global concerns about climate change and air quality intensify, nations are increasingly adopting sustainable transportation solutions, with electromobility emerging as a key alternative. This article examines the adoption of electric vehicles (EV) in Poland, a member state of the European Union (EU) historically reliant on fossil fuels, where the former government aimed to achieve one million electric vehicles by 2025, but is now seeing that it is failing to reach a number even close to this one. Using a mixed methods approach through a survey of academic representatives, the study investigates public perceptions, motivations, and challenges associated with the adoption of EVs in Central Europe. Key factors influencing consumer behaviour, such as government policies, infrastructure development, and societal readiness, are analysed to understand this transition's complexities. The findings reveal significant barriers, including range anxiety, inadequate charging infrastructure, and cost concerns, consistent with global research. However, the study also highlights that a lack of environmental consideration in car purchase decisions further impedes the transition to more sustainable powertrain options. By identifying the dynamics shaping the adoption of electric vehicles in Poland, this research aims to inform policymakers and stakeholders, highlighting tailored approaches to promote electromobility as a cornerstone of the country's environmental strategy and economic future. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable transportation in the EU, underscoring the potential of electromobility to enhance the environmental sustainability of Poland while navigating the challenges of transitioning from fossil fuel dependency.