These people are most sceptical about electric cars

According to researcher Live Tørstad Bøyum, the sceptics share some common traits.

“I found, among other things, that women are more sceptical about purchasing an electric car than men are,” she says.

She believes this could be linked to differences in risk appetite.

“Men are often more interested in new technology and take greater risks, while women prioritise practical aspects such as range and access to charging facilities,” she says.

Older people are more sceptical

Age also plays a part when it comes to attitudes towards electric cars. Bøyum explains that scepticism increases among people over the age of 45.

“This could be due to previous driving habits and the fact that the younger generation is more concerned about the climate,” she says.

People with higher education are more positive

People with higher levels of education are both more positive towards electric cars and more likely to own one.

“This may be due to greater environmental awareness and greater willingness to adopt new technology among those with higher education,” says Bøyum.

Additionally, more people with higher education live in cities, where there are often advantages to owning an electric car, such as access to bus lanes and better charging options.

“In fact, the likelihood of driving an electric car increases by 85 per cent in people with higher education,” she says. 

Why are some sceptical of electric cars? 

The study uncovered several reasons why some people remain sceptical of electric cars: 

Environmental impact: Many are unsure about how environmentally friendly electric cars actually are. Although there are reduced emissions during use, there are challenges associated with lithium mining, battery recycling, and resource use.

Technology: Some feel that the range, driving characteristics, and availability of electric car models do not meet their needs.

Price: Sceptics often find that the cars that meet their expectations are too expensive. Many do not want to buy a used electric car due to rapid technological advances, which could make older models outdated. 

How crucial is income?

Higher income increases the likelihood of owning an electric car. But income is not necessarily decisive for attitudes towards buying one.

“In Norway, tax policies and incentives mean that electric cars are attractive to both low- and middle-income groups,” says Bøyum.

However, she notes that high-income households can be sceptical if they perceive electric cars to be impractical. For example, concerning range or uncertainties about battery lifespan.

“For many people, scepticism is linked to electric cars being perceived as expensive in relation to usefulness even if they could afford to buy one,” she explains. 

The newest electric cars attract affluent households

High-income groups often end up buying new electric cars. They can afford the latest models with longer range and better features.

“Even though electric cars are more affordable to run, they still have a higher purchase price than many fossil cars. This makes it easier for those with financial freedom to choose the latest models,” says Bøyum. 

References:

Bøyum, L. Consumer preferences for battery electric vehicles: Comparing Norwegian consumer groups, Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, vol. 148, 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.trd.2025.104982 

Statistics on electric vehicles: elbil.no

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Read the Norwegian version of this article on forskning.no

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