Earlier studies found a direct link between the desire to help the planet and the purchase of a battery-electric vehicle. But that has begun to shift as the technology grows beyond an early niche to start moving into the mainstream.
Other studies have cited a variety of additional reasons why motorists say they’re buying EVs, including design, roomier interiors — and, in some communities, as a way to foster an image of being hip and cool.
“The idea of luxury being defined by what’s ‘under the hood’ has been replaced in the electric era with the prioritization of seamless connectivity, integration into existing digital ecosystems, and good UX design,” said Gregor Hembrough, head of Polestar North America. “People are switching to electric cars for more than just environmental reasons.”