Predicting Consumer Intention to Adopt Battery Electric Vehicles: Extending the Theory of Planned Behavior

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Comments for author File: Comments.pdf

Author Response

Dear reviewer,

Thank you for dedicating your time to review our manuscript. Enclosed, you will discover our comprehensive responses highlighted in orange, accompanied by references indicating the corresponding updates in the manuscript. Your insightful input has undeniably strengthened the paper's robustness. We sincerely appreciate your valuable feedback.

Thank you once again for your time and consideration.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The purpose and scope of this research align well with the objectives of Sustainability.

 I want to express my appreciation to the author(s) for affording me the opportunity to review this study. I sincerely hope that my suggestions prove both interesting and relevant for inclusion in the final version of your paper.

Personally, I consider the theme proposed by the authors in this research as fundamental for environmental sustainability and societal well-being. I would like to thank the authors for selecting such a crucial topic.

This study expands the Theory of Planned Behavior to analyze factors influencing consumer adoption intentions for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). The research incorporates constructs such as Moral Norm, Environmental Concern, and a distinctive consumer "profile" dimension, including experience, education, gender, and price sensitivity. The study, comprising 1,816 responses through an online survey, employed the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model. Empirical findings indicate that Attitude, Perceived Behavioral Control, Subjective Norm, and Moral Norm significantly impact adoption intention, with Attitude emerging as the strongest influencer, highlighting the significance of personal beliefs. Environmental Concern suggests that environmentally conscious consumers may lean towards BEV adoption due to positive attitudes.

I find the use of two analysis techniques in a research study to be very interesting. However, in this case, I would like to propose some improvements related to the theoretical framework, methodology, and, finally, the conclusions and implications. Consequently, I believe that the most appropriate decision would be to propose a minor revision.

1.  Abstract:

The abstract section is well-written; it summarizes the literature review and includes a concise overview of the study's problem, purpose, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion.

 

 

2.  Introduction:

The authors provide a suitable introduction to their research aligned with the research objectives. In this regard, I recommend that the authors consider incorporating the following improvements in this section:

·         Include updated data on emissions from the transportation sector in Spain. You may use the following information: https://fleetpeople.es/espana-reducira-un-12-las-emisiones-de-co2-de-los-coches-nuevos-en-2023-con-71-gramos-por-kilometro/#:~:text=Espa%C3%B1a%20reducir%C3%A1%20un%2012%25%20las%20emisiones%20de%20CO2%20de%20los,con%2071%20gramos%20por%20kil%C3%B3metro&text=La%20redacci%C3%B3n%20de%20Fleet%20People,las%20flotas%20y%20el%20renting  

·         Include data on electric vehicle sales in Spain. You may refer to reports in the following article: https://forococheselectricos.com/2023/11/ventas-coches-electricos-espana-octubre-2023.html

Additionally, it might be appropriate to review recent research aligned with your proposal.

·         Chawla, U., Mohnot, R., Mishra, V., Singh, H. V., & Singh, A. K. (2023). Factors Influencing Customer Preference and Adoption of Electric Vehicles in India: A Journey towards More Sustainable Transportation. Sustainability, 15(8), 7020.

·         Deka, C., Dutta, M. K., Yazdanpanah, M., & Komendantova, N. (2023). Can gain motivation induce Indians to adopt electric vehicles? Application of an extended theory of Planned Behavior to map EV adoption intention. Energy Policy, 182, 113724.

·         Hidayat, R., & Cowie, J. (2023). A framework to explore policy to support the adoption of electric vehicles in developing nations: A case study of Indonesia. Transportation Research Procedia, 70, 364-371.

·         Krishnan, V. V., & Sreekumar, M. (2023). An integrated behavioral approach to analyze the adoption of electric vehicles in the context of a developing country. Transport policy, 142, 162-172.

 

3.  Literature review:

Once again, I believe the authors have conducted a thorough review of the existing literature based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and its extensions. In this regard, and to update some references in the manuscript and Table 1, I suggest reviewing the following articles for potential inclusion:

·         Higueras-Castillo, E., Singh, V., Singh, V., & Liébana-Cabanillas, F. (2023). Factors affecting adoption intention of electric vehicle: a cross-cultural study. Environment, Development and Sustainability, 1-37.

·         Karuppiah, V., & Ramayah, T. (2023). Modeling hybrid cars adoption using an extended version of the theory of planned behavior. Transportation Letters, 15(7), 780-792.

·         Singh, H., Singh, V., Singh, T., & Higueras-Castillo, E. (2023). Electric vehicle adoption intention in the Himalayan region using UTAUT2–NAM model. Case Studies on Transport Policy, 11, 100946.

·         Singh, V., Singh, T., Higueras-Castillo, E., & Cabanillas, F. J. L. (2023). Sustainable road transportation adoption research: A meta and weight analysis, and moderation analysis. Journal of Cleaner Production, 136276.

·         Toraman, Y., Bayirli, M., & Ramadani, V. (2023). New technologies in small business models: use of electric vehicles in last-mile delivery for fast-moving consumer goods. Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development.

·         Yang, R., Li, L., Wang, C., Yue, C., & Wei, J. (2023). Influence of internal and external pressure sensing on green travel intention: based on a theoretical model of the theory of planned behavior and pressure-state-response model. Transportation research record, 2677(2), 958-972.

This step can enhance the currency and relevance of your literature review, ensuring that the latest and most pertinent research is considered in the context of your study.

In relation to the research hypotheses, I find that all are adequately justified except for H10. To the best of their ability, the authors should endeavor to provide further justification for this hypothesis.

4.  Methodology

I believe this section should be reordered with the following structure:

Research method

3.1 Data collection

3.2 Measures

3.3 Structural Equation Model (SEM)

 

I suggest that the authors also simplify the tables included in the manuscript. In particular, Table 3 and 4 could be improved by including the sources of the scales used:

CONSTRUCTS AND MEASURED ITEMS	STANDARD LOADINGS
Perceived Usefulness (Cronbach’s α=0.89; CR=0.91; AVE=0.60; R2=0.80, adapted from Huang, 2003)
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX	0.779

 

5.  Results:

I think the authors have done a great job in this section. They have provided a detailed explanation of the results, effectively connecting their findings with prior research by other authors. Furthermore, their results align coherently with the existing literature.

Additionally, the authors have put forth an intriguing proposal regarding the potential buyer profile for electric vehicles based on H10.

If the authors deem it appropriate, Tables 5 and 6 could potentially be merged into a single table, simplifying the manuscript's structure.

Please review the section numbering; it seems there may be an error in it.

 

6.  Conclusions:

 

Once again, the authors have executed an outstanding job in this section. I would only suggest that, due to the significance of this section, they might consider dividing it into multiple segments: Conclusions, Managerial Implications, and Limitations and Avenues for Future Research.

Author Response

Dear reviewer,

Thank you for dedicating your time to review our manuscript. Enclosed, you will find our responses to your suggestions highlighted in orange, accompanied by references indicating the corresponding updates in the manuscript. Your insightful input has undeniably strengthened the paper's robustness. We sincerely appreciate your valuable feedback.

Thank you once again for your time and consideration.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 3 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

This topic is interesting, but the methods and empirical processes used need to be explained more clearly to enhance the credibility of the conclusions. It is recommended to strengthen the discussion of the methodology. Here are detailed suggestions for writing the methodology and empirical findings sections of your article:

Methodology:

1. Survey Design:

   • Provide a detailed explanation of the survey design, including the purpose, target population, and sampling methods used.
   • Describe the rationale for choosing an online survey as the data collection method, highlighting its advantages and limitations.

2. Data Collection:

   • Specify the exact period during which data was collected (between 25 December 2022 and 13 March 2023).
   • Explain how the survey was administered and how respondents were invited to participate. Mention any incentives, if used, to encourage participation.

3. Sample Characteristics:

   • Provide a demographic profile of the respondents (e.g., age, gender, education level) to help readers understand the composition of your sample.
   • Discuss any potential biases in your sample and how you addressed them.

4. Measurement Instruments:

   • Present the measurement instruments used for each construct in your extended Theory of Planned Behavior (e.g., questionnaire items for Attitude, Perceived Behavioral Control, Subjective Norm, Moral Norm, Environmental Concern, and the "profile" dimension).
   • Explain the validity and reliability assessment procedures for these instruments.

5. Data Analysis:

   • Describe the statistical method used for data analysis, which is Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) in this case.
   • Explain why PLS-SEM was chosen as the appropriate analytical tool for your research objectives.
   • Provide information on the software used for data analysis (e.g., SmartPLS).

Empirical Findings:

6. Presentation of Results:

   • Present the empirical findings systematically, starting with the relationships between each construct and consumer adoption intention.
   • Utilize tables and figures to illustrate the path coefficients, loadings, and any significant relationships. Ensure these are clearly labeled and easy to interpret.

7. Interpretation of Results:

   • Interpret the findings in the context of your research questions and the extended Theory of Planned Behavior.
   • Discuss the practical implications of each significant relationship. Explain why these relationships are important and how they contribute to understanding consumer intentions regarding electric vehicle adoption.

8. Discussion of Moderation Effects:

   • Specifically address the moderation effect of price sensitivity on relationships. Explain how price sensitivity influences the relationships between constructs and adoption intentions.
   • Discuss the implications of these moderation effects for pricing strategies and incentives to promote electric vehicle adoption.

9. Addressing Research Objectives:

   • Clearly state how each research objective or hypothesis was addressed by the empirical findings.
   • Use subheadings to maintain a clear structure and guide readers through the presentation and interpretation of results.

10. Robustness and Sensitivity Analyses:

    • If applicable, discuss any additional analyses conducted to test the robustness of your results or to explore potential sensitivity to different model specifications.

11. Limitations:

    • Acknowledge the limitations of your study, such as any potential sources of bias, limitations of the online survey method, or constraints related to the sample size.

12. Conclusion of Empirical Findings:

    • Summarize the key empirical findings and their implications for understanding consumer intentions to adopt electric vehicles.
13. The other suggestions are:

14. Title:

    1. Clarity and Conciseness: The title is clear and concise, but it might benefit from a slight rephrase for readability: "Predicting Consumer Intentions for Electric Vehicle Adoption: Extending the Theory of Planned Behavior."

    Abstract:

    2. Contextual Introduction: Start the abstract by briefly introducing the global context of environmental concerns, carbon footprints, and the role of electric vehicles (EVs) in mitigating these issues. Highlight the significance of the research problem.

    3. Research Objectives: Clearly state the research objectives or questions you aim to address in the study. In this case, it's about understanding the factors influencing consumer intentions to adopt EVs.

    4. Methodology Summary: Mention the research methodology briefly. Include information on the number of survey responses and the statistical method used for analysis (Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model).

    5. Key Findings: Provide a concise summary of the key empirical findings without going into extensive detail. Mention the significant factors impacting adoption intentions.

    6. Practical Implications: Emphasize the practical implications of the findings for governments and EV manufacturers regarding promoting sustainable transportation methods.

    Introduction:

    7. Problem Statement: Begin with a clear problem statement. Explain why it's crucial to understand consumer intentions regarding electric vehicle adoption given the environmental challenges.

    8. Theoretical Framework: Introduce the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a foundation and discuss how you extend it by adding constructs like Moral Norm, Environmental Concern, and the "profile" dimension.

    Literature Review:

    9. Comprehensive Review: Provide a comprehensive review of existing literature related to electric vehicle adoption, behavioral theories, and the key constructs you are including.

    10. Conceptual Framework: Develop a clear conceptual framework based on the extended TPB, showing how each construct relates to consumer intentions to adopt EVs.

    Methodology:

    11. Survey Details: Explain the survey design, including how the 1,816 responses were collected, survey questions, and any measures used.

    12. Data Analysis: Describe in detail the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) used for analysis. Include relevant statistical information.

    Results:

    13. Presentation: Present the empirical findings logically. Use tables and figures to illustrate key data points. Discuss the significance of each construct's impact on adoption intentions.

    Discussion:

    14. Interpretation: Interpret the results in the context of the extended TPB and the research objectives. Discuss the practical implications of the findings for policymakers and manufacturers.

    15. Address Price Sensitivity: Provide an in-depth discussion on how price sensitivity moderates relationships and its implications for pricing strategies and incentives.

    Conclusion:

    16. Summary: Summarize the key findings concisely and restate their implications for promoting EV adoption.

    17. Research Agenda: Suggest future research directions based on the gaps identified in the study.

    18.  

Comments on the Quality of English Language

Language and Style:

19. Clarity: Write in clear, concise language, avoiding unnecessary jargon.

20. Proofreading: Thoroughly proofread and edit your article for grammar and clarity.

Structure and Flow:

21. Logical Flow: Maintain a logical flow with clear section headings, and use transition sentences to guide readers.

Author Response

Dear reviewer,

Thank you for dedicating your time to review our manuscript. Enclosed, you will find our responses to your suggestions highlighted in orange, accompanied by references indicating the corresponding updates in the manuscript. Your insightful input has undeniably strengthened the paper's robustness. We sincerely appreciate your valuable feedback.

Thank you once again for your time and consideration.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 4 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

1. Originality and Significance of Contribution

 

The paper investigated factors influencing the adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in Spain using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) extended with Environmental Concern (EC) and Moral Norm (MN). This approach is novel in the context of the Spanish market and contributes significantly to understanding BEVs' adoption in a less explored geographical area. The study's originality lies in its comprehensive analysis incorporating consumer behavior, environmental awareness, and moral norms, providing a detailed insight into the factors driving BEV adoption in Spain. The study's use of primary data from 1,816 participants adds value to its findings. However, the study’s focus on Spain limits its generalizability.

 

2. Appropriateness of Abstract as a Description of the Paper

 

The abstract succinctly summarizes the study's purpose, methodology, and key findings. It effectively captures the essence of the paper, making clear its focus on consumer adoption intentions for BEVs and the inclusion of unique constructs in the TPB model.

 

3. Adequacy of the Literature Review

 

The literature review is comprehensive, covering a range of studies on BEV adoption, the TPB model, and the role of EC and MN in consumer behavior. The review effectively positions the research within the existing body of knowledge, highlighting the gap the study aims to fill. However, there is a lack of critical analysis of previous studies. Moreover, the review could benefit from a deeper exploration of the cultural and socio-economic factors specific to the Spanish context, given the study's geographical focus.

 

4. Organization and Readability

 

The paper is well-structured, with clear sections delineating the introduction, literature review, materials and methods, results, discussion and conclusion. The readability is generally good, with complex concepts and statistical analyses presented in an understandable manner. The use of tables and figures enhances understanding. However, some sections, particularly the results and discussion, are dense and challenging for readers not familiar with advanced statistical methods in behavioral research.

 

5. Soundness of Methodology, Analysis, and Interpretation

 

The methodology, primarily a survey-based approach analyzed through PLS structural equation modeling, is sound and appropriate for the research questions. The analysis is rigorous, with detailed statistical validation of the model.  However, the paper has some weaknesses in the methodology; for instance, the selection criteria and the representativeness of the sample are not adequately discussed.

 

6. Evidence Supports Conclusions

 

The conclusions are well-supported by the evidence presented. The study finds significant impacts of various TPB constructs on EV adoption intention, providing new insights into the role of moral and environmental concerns. However, the direct impact of EC on adoption intention was not found significant, which slightly weakens the overall argument of the paper.

 

Minor Comments

 

The authors should verify the numbering of the tables.

 

Shortcomings/Weak Points

 

- The focus on Spain, while valuable, limits the study's generalizability and impact on global sustainability discourse.

- While comprehensive, the literature review lacks a critical analysis of existing studies.

- There is a need for a deeper exploration of the cultural and socio-economic factors specific to the Spanish context.

- The use of technical language, while appropriate for the subject, might be challenging for readers not familiar with advanced statistical methods in behavioral research.

- The sampling method and participant demographics may not fully represent the broader Spanish consumer base, potentially biasing the results.

Comments on the Quality of English Language

Minor editing of English language required.

Author Response

Dear reviewer,

Thank you for dedicating your time to review our manuscript. Enclosed, you will find our responses to your suggestions highlighted in orange, accompanied by references indicating the corresponding updates in the manuscript. Your insightful input has undeniably strengthened the paper's robustness. We sincerely appreciate your valuable feedback.

Thank you once again for your time and consideration.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round 2

Reviewer 3 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The quality of the content has shown significant improvement compared to its previous state. However, to enhance its overall quality further, a comprehensive proofreading process is highly recommended. Proper proofreading will not only help identify and correct any remaining errors or inconsistencies but also ensure that the text meets the highest standards of clarity, coherence, and precision.

Comments on the Quality of English Language

It should be proofreading.

Author Response

Dear Reviewer,

Thank you for your feedback. We have conducted a comprehensive proofreading process, resulting in significant improvements and additional refinements to the manuscript. Attached, you will find the updated version reflecting these changes. We believe that these revisions align more closely with your expectations and enhance the overall quality of the paper. We sincerely appreciate your time and valuable feedback, which have been instrumental in elevating the standard of our work.

Best regards,

Kathrin 

Reviewer 4 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

On the first version of the paper, some concerns were raised: 

These concerns were successfully addressed by the authors in the reviewed manuscript.

In my opinion, the manuscript can be accepted in the present form.

Author Response

Dear Reviewer,

Thank you for your insightful feedback. We have meticulously conducted a final comprehensive proofreading process, resulting in additional refinements to the manuscript. Enclosed, you will find the updated version reflecting these enhancements. Once again, we sincerely appreciate your time and dedication to ensuring the quality of our work. Your valuable input has been instrumental in shaping the final outcome, and we hope that these revisions meet and even surpass your expectations.

Best regards,

Kathrin