An Examination of Consumers’ Opinions toward Adopting Electric Vehicles in the United Arab Emirates: On the Effects of Functional and Symbolic Values

Robert M. Bridi (), Marwa Ben Jabra and Naeema Al Hosani
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Robert M. Bridi: Geography and Urban Sustainability Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
Marwa Ben Jabra: Geography and Urban Sustainability Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
Naeema Al Hosani: Geography and Urban Sustainability Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates

Energies, 2022, vol. 15, issue 16, 1-19

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine consumers’ opinions toward adopting electric vehicles (EVs) for light-duty transport in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the functional value (i.e., the utility or benefit attained by consumers from the functions or tangible features associated with EVs) and symbolic value (i.e., the social meaning that consumers associate with EVs) perspectives. The primary research question was as follows: To what extent do functional and symbolic values affect consumers’ opinions toward adopting EVs in the UAE? The objectives were to determine if relationships exist between gender, age, and residency and the functional and symbolic values of consumers’ opinions toward adopting EVs. A survey of 5459 people was conducted in 14 cities across the seven emirates (Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain) to test the relationship. The results revealed that females, respondents aged 20–29, and residents living in Abu Dhabi City found more appealing functional and symbolic values regarding EVs.

Keywords: electric vehicles (EVs); functional values; symbolic values; opinions; adoption; United Arab Emirates (UAE) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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