Determining Generation Y Intention to Purchase Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Abstract

With the current climate change challenges, it is imperative that more people are onboard on living a more sustainable lifestyle. One important aspect of this is to purchase an environment friendly car such as Electric vehicles (EVs). However, the obstacle in this effort is the willingness of Generation Y (Gen Y) in Klang Valley to purchase electric vehicles and the influencing variables because of the specific feature they look for when buying a car. The generation is selected based on their representation of significant automotive purchases in Malaysia. This study is guided by the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to examine three key factors that influence the intention to purchase EVs among Gen Y in Klang Valley, Malaysia: Attitudes, Subjective Norms, and Perceived Behavioural Control. To achieve the research objective, this study employed an online survey which is quantitative approach. Data was gathered from a total of 233 study respondents, consisting of car purchasers (Gen Y) residing in the Klang Valley region. The acquired data was analyzed using SPSS software, including Descriptive analysis, Pearson Correlation Coefficient Analysis and Regression Analysis The findings of the study indicate that there is a positive relationship between Generation Y's behavioural attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control variables, and their intention to acquire electric vehicles (EVs). Furthermore, a correlation was found between behavioural views, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control and the inclination to acquire electric vehicles among generation Y. Based on the findings, the theory's context substantiates the elements that influence buying intentions. The research holds significance as it has furnished pertinent insights to electric vehicle (EV) producers in the Klang Valley region and the government regarding strategies to promote the adoption of EVs among Malaysians. Hence, it is imperative to carry out further investigations into alternative urban areas.