Behavioral Drivers of Battery Rickshaw Preference: Consumer Acceptance, Safety Risks, and Regulatory Frameworks

Once banned for safety and regulatory purposes, battery rickshaws in Bangladesh have seen a recent upsurge in popularity as an affordable and convenient means of transportation for short distances in urban areas. Due to mounting concerns for the health effects associated with the physical exertion of rickshaw pulling, a significant proportion of rickshaw-pullers have increasingly shifted towards battery rickshaws. Nevertheless, several major issues continue to exist regarding unauthorized battery charging, tax avoidance, and roadworthy driving on the streets. The aim of this exploratory study is to identify the contextual and behavioral factors that promote the acceptance of battery rickshaws, using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The research was conducted using a structured survey of 242 individuals. After conducting a thorough data screening to eliminate incomplete and invalid entries, 218 valid samples were retained. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was first conducted to uncover underlying dimensions, resulting in six key constructs: Subjective Norm, Attitude Towards Battery Rickshaw, Usage Intention, Practical Experience & Constraints, Road-Sharing Perception, and Support for Sustainable Urban Transport. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) then validated the reliability and construct validity of the measurement model, which demonstrated a satisfactory fit. Finally, SEM analysis was applied to examine the structural relationships among the constructs and evaluate their direct and indirect effects on user intention and preference. According to the findings, subjective norms and attitudes towards battery rickshaws positively influence usage intention, whereas road-sharing perception further enhances these behavioral choices. In contrast, practical experience and constraints negatively affect intention, implying that operational complexity-related challenges may deter wider acceptance. Additionally, support for sustainable urban transport does not directly influence usage intention; however, it has a significant impact on improving practical experience and reducing constraints and thus indirectly enhances user acceptance. In spite of increased use of battery rickshaws, issues of safety, especially sudden turns and driver impatience, remain unsolved. The paper explains the changing urban transport mode choices in Bangladesh and highlights areas for policy intervention along with the safe integration of the battery rickshaw in the transport system.