The Attractiveness of Electric Vehicles for Heterogeneous Consumers: A Range-Cost-Emission Comparative Analysis

Abstract

This study offers a complete comparative method that examines the long- and short-term range–cost–emission attractiveness of different electric vehicle (EV) types for heterogeneous consumers. Despite the centrality of range satisfaction in EV adoption decisions, existing studies rely heavily on subjective user perceptions. This study bridges this gap by proposing the first data-driven framework to quantify range satisfaction, comparing EVs and conventional vehicles (CVs) through real-world mobility patterns and subsidy scenarios. The distribution of daily vehicle miles traveled was used to cluster mobility patterns and driving demands. In addition, EV subsidy rollback scenarios were modeled to quantify their impact on EV adoption in both long- and short-term ownership situations. The findings show that the attractiveness of EVs for different user types for long- and short-term adoption varies. EVs may not provide the same level of range satisfaction that CVs do, especially for users with high travel demands. Although driving costs can be reduced with EVs, not all users will benefit from them. Before acquiring an EV, users must examine their usage patterns and driving demands, as well as prepare for long- or short-term ownership. Changes in subsidies can affect not only the attractiveness of EVs but also the adoption duration. Finally, acknowledging that the environmental attractiveness of EVs is tied to the electricity production profile, it also varies based on vehicle utilization pattern.