India EV Drivers Face Social Pressure as Myths Continue to Hinder Acceptance: Survey

India electric vehicle drivers encounter resistance from friends and family due to persistent misconceptions about the technology, according to data from the Global EV Alliance survey.

The survey revealed that 31 per cent of Indian EV drivers face difficulty in convincing friends and family members about choosing an electric vehicle due to widespread myths and misinformation, compared to just 14 per cent of drivers globally who report similar challenges. 

The findings highlight how misconceptions create social barriers that go beyond technical or infrastructure concerns in the Indian market. This social pressure reflects the influence of outdated information and myths that continue to shape public perception about electric mobility in the country.

The Global EV Alliance conducted the survey between September and October, collecting responses from more than 26,000 electric vehicle drivers across 30 countries. The research aimed to understand driver experiences and identify barriers preventing wider adoption of electric vehicle

Results from the survey indicated that 77 per cent of EV drivers globally identified persistent myths as the single biggest obstacle to electric vehicle adoption in their nations. This pattern appears particularly pronounced in India, where social acceptance remains a challenge for current owners. 

Joel Levin, chair of the Global EV Alliance and Director of Plug in America, stated that misinformation about electric vehicles presents a serious challenge. He noted that false information can reduce policymaker confidence in electric vehicles as viable solutions for climate change and local air pollution. 

One prevalent myth centres on fire safety concerns. However, the survey found that 88 per cent of electric vehicle drivers reported no worry about their vehicles being a fire hazard. This disconnect between driver experience and public perception demonstrates how myths persist despite evidence from actual vehicle owners. 

The research also showed that 83 per cent of respondents believe policy measures are needed to increase electric vehicle sales in their countries. This finding suggests that government intervention may be required to address misinformation and support adoption. 

Economic factors emerged as both motivators and barriers in the survey results. Around 45 per cent of respondents cited lower energy costs as a reason for choosing an electric vehicle. At the same time, 58 per cent identified the purchase price as a barrier to adoption in their country. 

The survey results indicate that addressing misinformation requires coordinated efforts from policymakers, industry stakeholders and driver communities to change social perceptions and enable wider acceptance of electric vehicles in India.