Consumers’ Level of Awareness Towards Features of Electric Vehicles

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as an important sustainable alternative to conventional vehicles due to growing concerns over climate change, environmental pollution, rising fuel costs, and dependence on imported petroleum. Despite government initiatives such as the FAME India Scheme, EV adoption in India remains comparatively low. The present study examines consumers’ awareness and perceptions of electric vehicles, with particular reference to Chennai City. It also identifies the factors influencing EV purchase decisions and the problems faced by consumers while using selected EV brands. A descriptive research design was adopted, and both primary and secondary data were used. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 800 respondents selected from eight Regional Transport Office (RTO) areas representing the northern, southern, eastern, and western regions of Chennai City. The data were analysed using SPSS Version 20.0 through percentage analysis, descriptive statistics, Chi-square, t-test, ANOVA, factor analysis, correlation, and regression analysis. The hypotheses were tested at the five per cent level of significance. The study provides insights into consumer awareness, perceptions, and challenges related to EVs and offers useful implications for manufacturers, dealers, policymakers, and consumers for promoting wider acceptance and adoption of electric vehicles.