Title: A study on the effect of non-psychological factors on the adoption of three-wheeler electric vehicles

Authors: Navin Mathew; G. Varaprasad

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, NIT Campus, 673601, Kerala, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, NIT Campus, 673601, Kerala, India

Abstract: The introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) is considered to be one of the most effective ways to control the environmental hazards caused by the emissions of internal combustion (IC) engine vehicles. India is the global market leader in the three-wheeler sector, and the emissions caused will also be of significant share. Though three-wheeler EVs are available in the market, consumers continue to exhibit purchasing resistance. This study aimed to find the non-psychological factors affecting the adoption of three-wheeler EVs. The model is analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and importance-performance map analysis (IPMA) to rank the significant factors. Cost is the most important factor, followed by government policies and regulations, vehicle performance, and battery performance. This study can assist government agencies, marketers, and manufacturers in developing more effective strategies to determine and meet customer needs, which will increase the rate of adoption.

Keywords: adoption; willingness to adopt; three-wheeler EV; PLS-SEM; cost; battery performance.

DOI: 10.1504/IJICBM.2026.151571

International Journal of Indian Culture and Business Management, 2026 Vol.37 No.1, pp.124 - 146

Received: 16 Dec 2023
Accepted: 31 Dec 2023
Published online: 09 Feb 2026 *

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