Navigating challenges in the transition to green transportation: A perception study exploring factors influencing drivers’ intentions for electric vehicle adoption

Road transportation contributes ∼15% to global carbon emissions, necessitating a shift from fossil fuels to electric vehicles (EVs). In response, global communities and the automotive industry are actively pursuing strategies to phase out traditional vehicles in favor of electric alternatives. This research contributes by identifying and analyzing the significant factors influencing drivers’ perceptions of EV adoption. The study focuses on three primary categories: demographic information, environmental awareness, and factors encouraging or discouraging EV acquisition intent. To achieve these objectives, a survey-based study was conducted among 655 drivers in Saudi Arabia, considering diverse segments of age, gender, and education levels. Employing descriptive statistics, crosstab analysis, and nonparametric statistical tools (Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests), the study reveals substantial findings. Specifically, it highlights a significant gender disparity in perceptions of insufficient EV knowledge, with drivers of higher education exhibiting greater concern for the environmental impact and seeking more information about EVs. Results show a strong association between individuals with higher education levels and a willingness to pay more for an EV. Interestingly, no significant differences are found among different age groups, indicating that regardless of age, EV acquisition intent is associated with gender and education levels. The implications of these findings extend to policymakers, offering guidance on how drivers’ perceptions may influence EV promotion policies. Furthermore, the study enhances understanding of market dynamics surrounding EV adoption, unveiling challenges and opportunities associated with environmental factors.