Determinants of Electric Vehicle Purchase Intention among Fresh Graduates for Sustainable Mobility in Selangor

Abstract

The rising demand for sustainable transportation underscores the importance of understanding the behavioral factors that influence electric vehicle (EV) adoption, particularly among fresh graduates, who represent future drivers of change. This study models the intentions of fresh graduates in Selangor to purchase EVs by investigating the influence of performance expectancy, environmental concern, social influence, and government commitment. The research objectives were to identify the demographic characteristics of fresh graduates, examine the relationships between the key determinants and EV purchase intention, and assess the relative impact of these determinants on EV adoption. A quantitative approach involving 400 respondents was employed, using a structured survey to collect behavioural data. The findings revealed that survey participation was higher among male respondents (63.0%) and individuals of Chinese ethnicity (51.2%). Correlation analysis revealed that all determinants were significantly and positively associated with EV purchase intention, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.667 (government commitment) to 0.686 (performance expectancy). However, multiple regression analysis showed that only performance expectancy, social influence, and government commitment significantly predicted EV purchase intention, with performance expectancy (β = 0.271) emerging as the strongest determinant, followed by government commitment and social influence. Although environmental concern was positively correlated with EV purchase intention, its effect became non-significant after controlling for the other determinants. This research provides practical insights for policymakers, EV manufacturers, and marketers to develop targeted strategies that promote EV adoption and support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.