A comparative study of EV adoption in Finland and the Netherlands: understanding consumer perception : An analysis of factors influencing consumer attitudes towards electric vehicles

Abstract

This thesis explored the parallels and nuances surrounding electric vehicle (EV) adoption among consumers in Finland and the Netherlands. This thesis aimed to explore the motivational drivers, obstacles, and priorities impacting consumer perception regarding EV adoption. The mixed methods employed included a survey of 94 respondents comprising of Finnish and Dutch EV owners and 5 EV industry executive interviews. The following research questions guided the study: How does consumer perception of electric vehicles differ between Finland and the Netherlands? Which parallels can be drawn from factors impacting the rate of electric vehicle adoption in Finland and the Netherlands? Do legislative differences in these regions impact consumer perception in the electric vehicle industry? The findings of this study showed both countries are similar in their commitment to sustainability goals and actively increasing EV adoption among consumers, however notable differences were identified in consumer perception. The Netherlands, with its more advanced EV market, placed higher emphasis on environmental consciousness as the decisive factor impacting EV adoption. Whereas the Finnish consumer group were more economically driven in their decision to adopt EVs. The main barriers identified through the survey and interviews in both groups concerned EV cost, charging infrastructure, and range anxiety. Additional differences in governmental incentives were explored including the ambitious the Netherlands’ 2030 Net Zero goal—which impacted consumer perception as environmental consciousnesses was ranked the critical factor in EV adoption. This thesis has proved valuable in understanding the factors influencing consumer adoption of EV’s in Finland and the Netherlands. It has also provided practical recommendations for EV industry stakeholders including car manufacturers, governmental policymakers, shareholders and researchers, such as expanding charging networks, improving affordability, and addressing key consumer needs.