Scott Hardman | University of Califonria, Davis

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Presentation Description

As regions transition to 100% zero emission vehicle (ZEV) sales research is beginning to investigate how to facilitate ZEV adoption in disadvantaged communities, tribal communities, low-income communities, and for low-income households. This research explores results from 7 focus groups and a representative survey of over 2,000 households in these communities in California.

Results from the focus groups revealed disadvantaged community members have very low knowledge of ZEVs, ZEV incentives, have not previously considered purchasing a ZEV, and are unaware that a ZEV transition is underway. However, when presented with information on the basics of ZEVs (including incentives, model availability, infrastructure etc.), focus group participants were more engaged and interested in exploring whether a ZEV would be a viable option for their household. Despite this interest, respondents were confused about which incentive options were available to them, how to access incentives, and the various eligibility criteria; had concerns on whether they could access charging at their homes or in their communities; and did not perceive substantial benefits of them choosing a ZEV over a conventional vehicle. Results from the survey show lack of charging, lack of knowledge on ZEVs in general, and low awareness of incentives as the biggest barriers to ZEV purchase. The survey also explored community members priorities for transportation improvements. Respondents report improvements to transit, walkability, and biking infrastructure as priorities rather than investments into ZEVs. Many households are financially burdened with the costs of private vehicle ownership, live in communities that have poor walkability and poor transit service which may explain their preferences for improvements to other transportation options.

Based on these results we believe more work is needed to educate disadvantaged communities about ZEVs, ZEV incentives, and the availability of ZEV infrastructure rather than hoping these investments alone will lead to interest in ZEVs spontaneously emerging. However, a focus on ZEVs alone may not best serve disadvantaged communities travel needs or preferences.

Speaker Biography

Scott Hardman is Associate Research Faculty and Assistant Director of the Electric Vehicle Research Center at the University of California Davis. He is a behavioural researcher focused on electric vehicles (EVs) and automated vehicles (AVs). This includes understanding the buyers of EVs & AVs, consumer preferences and purchase motivations, travel behaviour, and researching policies to manage the adoption of both technologies.

Co-presenters

Kelly  Hoogland
University of California, Davis

Jesus Barajas
University of Califonria, Davis

Ryan Jung
University of California, Davis

Maha Shafaeen
University of Califorina, Davis

Presentation File