Understanding the impact of push-pull-mooring factors on the switching and continued usage intentions for electric three-wheelers in public transport

Abstract

The transition from fossil fuel-powered to electric three-wheelers represents a critical step toward sustainable public transportation. This study examines factors influencing adoption and continued usage of electric three-wheelers among drivers in Kerala, India. Using the Push-Pull-Mooring framework and Extended Expectancy Confirmation Theory, this research focuses on drivers as primary users, addressing their unique challenges, often overlooked in prior electric vehicle research. Data from 457 potential electric three-wheeler drivers, analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), reveals that environmental concerns, operating costs, non-monetary incentives, and perceived health benefits significantly drive adoption intentions, while showroom service quality has no impact. The study identifies that while electric three-wheeler drivers value the environmental benefits and enhanced comfort provided by electric vehicles, they still have concerns about the physical environment of hydrocarbon transport and performance of EVs compared to hydrocarbon-powered vehicles.