Investigating the Moderating Role of Government Incentive Policy on Consumer Adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) in Malaysia

As concerns about climate change, global warming, and environmental degradation continue to escalate, the adoption of electric vehicles, particularly Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), has emerged as a promising solution for a more sustainable future. This study delves into the willingness of Malaysian consumers to embrace BEVs, with a specific focus on the moderating role of government incentives and policies. Drawing upon the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as the theoretical framework, this study extends the TPB model by incorporating four additional external variables to better understand the factors influencing adoption intention. Employing a quantitative research approach, this investigation utilizes a cross-sectional survey method to collect empirical data from car consumers across Malaysia. The survey instrument, adapted from previous studies, comprehensively assesses nine constructs relevant to this research. Data analysis will be conducted using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), specifically employing the Partial Least Squares SEM (PLS-SEM) approach, to examine the formulated hypotheses. The findings of this study aim to shed light on the determinants of BEV adoption intention among Malaysian consumers, with implications for policymakers, automotive industry players, and researchers. Further research avenues are also proposed to deepen our understanding of the complex dynamics surrounding BEV adoption in Malaysia.