Electric Automobile Perception of Generation Z: A Future Perspective for Sustainable Development

Abstract

Purpose – Electric automobiles play an important role in achieving sustainable development goals by reducing dependence on fossil fuels. However, the market share of electric vehicles in Türkiye is still low, and various factors prevent consumers from adopting these vehicles. At this point, the need to create a projection of future automobile users increases. The aim of the study is to determine the attitudes and perceptions of Generation Z towards electric vehicles and to reveal the role of sustainability in the adoption of electric vehicles.
Design/methodology/approach – The sample of this study, which is based on a qualitative research approach, consists of Generation Z individuals living in the metropolitan districts of Ankara. The research data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The data obtained were analyzed thematically with MAXQDA 2020
Results – The environmental friendliness of electric vehicles is one of the main factors that positively affect Generation Z's adoption of these vehicles. However, price barriers and inadequacies in charging infrastructure emerge as significant barriers limiting the adoption process.
Discussion – The findings suggest that the motivations and barriers faced by Generation Z in the adoption of electric cars are important factors to be considered by policymakers and industry representatives. In line with the results of the study, various recommendations are presented for the future of electric vehicles. The study has limitations in terms of generalisability due to its limited geographical scope and participant diversity. This study provides important insights for future policy makers and industry representatives to consider when making strategic decisions.