Steve O’Hern

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transport contribute significantly to climate change. Some of the transport policies with the greatest potential to mitigate climate change are related to zero-emission vehicles. This study aimed to analyse the different factors, and their importance, influencing purchase decisions for battery electric vehicles (BEV). Experts’ perceptions were collected with a Delphi study consisting of a two-round survey to assess factors that would increase the probability of a petrol- or diesel-car owner purchasing a BEV in Finland in the year 2025. Increasing the possibilities for home charging and the provision of a purchase subsidy were seen as the most important factors. Public fast charging and the difference in use costs between current technology vehicles and BEVs were also recognised as important factors. Existing systems of financial instruments and policies must be constantly evaluated and updated due to the evolving BEV industry.