Exploring the effect of information overload on consumers’ purchase intention for electric vehicles: a cognition-affect-conation perspective

As an important solution to global environmental problems and energy crises, electric vehicles (EVs) have become a key force in promoting green and low-carbon development. However, in the digital age, consumers are faced with a huge amount of information every day. Thus, it is necessary to explore the factors influencing EV purchase intention from the perspective of information. This study used data collected from six pilot cities in China and found that information overload negatively impacts purchase intention and positively impacts techno-uncertainty and techno-insecurity. Techno-uncertainty and techno-insecurity are shown to reduce consumers’ intention to purchase EVs. Additionally, this study highlights that government and eco-centric social support can mitigate these negative effects in the relationship between techno-uncertainty, techno-insecurity, and purchase intention. This research contributes to the understanding of how external contextual factors, combined with psychological influences, shape consumer behavior in the green technology sector. Practical implications are provided for future research.