ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS AND PERCEPTIONS INFLUENCING ELECTRIC TWO-WHEELER ADOPTION

It is evident from the overall analysis of all six tables that the adoption and perception of electric two-wheelers are primarily shaped by an interplay of economic benefits, policy incentives, infrastructure readiness and long-term cost expectations, with clear occupational variations between salaried and self-employed respondents. Across the findings, social influence and economic rationality emerge as the dominant drivers of adoption, where friends’ suggestions and perceived cost savings play a major role. At the same time, both groups strongly recognise the long-term affordability of electric two-wheelers compared to petrol scooters, with a majority expecting significant cost advantages over a five-year period. This reinforces the growing perception of EVs as a financially viable alternative rather than merely an environmental choice.   Policy preferences further highlight that exchange or scrappage-based incentives are the most effective motivators for switching, indicating that respondents value tangible asset recovery over upfront subsidies. Tax exemptions and usage-related benefits also hold importance, but direct price reductions are comparatively less influential. The charging ecosystem analysis reveals that home charging is central to the economic advantage of EVs, particularly among self-employed respondents, while salaried individuals exhibit greater concern regarding installation costs, range anxiety and power reliability. This indicates that infrastructure quality and accessibility remain crucial determinants of adoption experience. At the household level, EV adoption is largely associated with improved disposable income and enhanced mobility flexibility, suggesting that users perceive EVs as tools for financial optimisation. Secondary benefits such as health savings and asset value appreciation are acknowledged but remain less prominent in decision-making. However, despite these positive perceptions, significant financial concerns persist, particularly regarding high battery replacement costs after warranty, followed by resale value uncertainty and limited repair ecosystem support. These concerns represent key psychological and economic barriers that may slow wider adoption unless addressed through policy and market interventions.   The study reveals that while electric two-wheelers are increasingly viewed as economically advantageous and socially acceptable, sustained adoption depends on strengthening post-purchase financial security, improving service infrastructure and enhancing long-term asset confidence among users. Occupational differences further indicate that salaried respondents are more influenced by social and infrastructural factors, whereas self-employed respondents respond more strongly to direct financial implications and cost recovery mechanisms.               Based on the findings, it is suggested that policy interventions should focus more on strengthening exchange or scrappage-linked incentives, as respondents show higher responsiveness to asset recovery benefits compared to direct purchase subsidies. Improving the battery ecosystem through price stabilisation mechanisms, extended warranties and development of affordable replacement options can significantly reduce the primary financial concern affecting adoption decisions. Expansion of reliable charging infrastructure, particularly affordable home charging solutions and stable public charging networks, is essential to enhance user confidence. Further, strengthening local servicing ecosystems through trained third-party repair networks can reduce long-term maintenance concerns and improve resale market confidence. Awareness programmes highlighting total cost savings, health benefits and long-term household economic advantages may also help in reinforcing positive perceptions and accelerating adoption across both salaried and self-employed groups.  

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