Adoption and Use of Battery Electric Vehicles Among Older Drivers: A Review and Research Recommendations

David W. Eby (), Renée M. St. Louis, Jennifer S. Zakrajsek and Nicole Zanier
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David W. Eby: Behavioral Sciences Group, University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), College of Engineering, University of Michigan, 2901 Baxter Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Renée M. St. Louis: Behavioral Sciences Group, University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), College of Engineering, University of Michigan, 2901 Baxter Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Jennifer S. Zakrajsek: Behavioral Sciences Group, University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), College of Engineering, University of Michigan, 2901 Baxter Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
Nicole Zanier: Behavioral Sciences Group, University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), College of Engineering, University of Michigan, 2901 Baxter Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 7, 1-13

Abstract: In the United States, transportation is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with passenger vehicles accounting for the majority. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) offer a significant opportunity to reduce emissions, as they have fewer emissions related to electricity generation compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. However, the benefits of BEVs are limited by their low adoption rates, particularly among older adults. In 2023, only 9.3% of vehicles on US roads were electric, and older adults (age 65 and above) have the lowest ownership and least interest in purchasing electric vehicles. This review aimed to understand the empirical data on the adoption and use of BEVs among older drivers, identify research gaps, and provide a research agenda to promote BEV use among this demographic for a more sustainable future. The review found that older drivers possess unique perceptions, often seeing more environmental benefits and fewer cost-related barriers than younger drivers, but concerns about charging infrastructure remain a significant obstacle. Notably, there is limited detailed research specific to older adults’ use patterns, charging behaviors, and the potential influence of socioeconomic factors. Future research should consider more nuanced age definitions, mixed-method approaches, and real-world behavioral studies over extended periods. A concerted effort toward understanding and addressing these barriers can inform strategies to increase BEV adoption among older adults, contributing to broader environmental goals. The review proposes a research agenda focused on understanding older adults’ adoption decisions, driving and charging behaviors, and effective training methods to facilitate BEV use.

Keywords: aging; transportation; sustainability; equity; traffic psychology (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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