CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction to the Study
The global automotive industry is currently undergoing a transformational
shift from conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to
electric vehicles (EVs). This transition is not only technological but also
economic, environmental, and behavioral in nature. Traditional fuel-based
four-wheelers, powered by petrol or diesel, have dominated the
transportation sector for decades. However, increasing environmental
concerns, rising fuel prices, and the depletion of fossil fuels have compelled
governments, manufacturers, and consumers to explore alternative
solutions.
Electric four-wheelers, which operate on electric motors powered by
batteries, are emerging as a viable and sustainable alternative. These
vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, reduce dependence on fossil fuels,
and contribute to cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The
shift toward electric mobility is aligned with global efforts to combat
climate change and promote sustainable development.
In India, the adoption of electric vehicles has gained momentum in recent
years due to government initiatives such as subsidies, tax benefits, and
infrastructure development. However, the adoption rate of electric four-
wheelers is still relatively slow compared to two-wheelers and three-
wheelers. This is primarily due to factors such as high initial cost, limited
charging infrastructure, and consumer hesitation.
This study focuses on understanding the transition from fuel-based to
electric four-wheelers, with special reference to consumer behavior in
Amravati district. It aims to analyze how consumers perceive electric
vehicles, what factors influence their purchasing decisions, and what
barriers exist in adopting this new technology.
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1.2 Background of the Study
The concept of electric mobility is not new, but it has gained renewed
importance in the 21st century due to environmental degradation and
energy crises. The transportation sector is one of the largest contributors to
air pollution and carbon emissions, especially in developing countries like
India.
Amravati district, located in Maharashtra, represents a semi-urban region
where traditional preferences coexist with modern trends. Consumers in
thiss region are gradually becoming aware of environmental issues and
technological advancements. However, their purchasing decisions are
influenced by multiple factors such as income level, awareness,
infrastructure availability, and social influence.
The study of consumer behavior in such a region is important because:
It reflects real market conditions beyond metro cities
It helps identify challenges in EV adoption
It provides insights for policymakers and manufacturers
1.3 Need for the Study
The need for this study arises from the growing importance of electric
vehicles in the automotive sector. While EVs offer numerous advantages,
their adoption depends largely on consumer acceptance.
Key reasons for conducting this study include:
Increasing environmental concerns and pollution levels
Rising fuel prices affecting consumer budgets
Government push toward electric mobility
Lack of awareness and misconceptions about EVs
Need to understand rural and semi-urban consumer mindset
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This study will help bridge the gap between technological advancements
and consumer acceptance.
1.4 Objectives of the Study
The main objectives of the study are:
1. To study the level of awareness about electric four-wheelers among
consumers
2. To analysed consumer preferences between fuel-based and electric vehicles
3. To identify factors influencing the purchase decision of EVs
4. To examine the challenges faced by consumers in adopting EVs
5. To suggest measures to promote electric vehicle adoption
1.5 Research Questions
The study attempts to answer the following questions:
Are consumers aware of electric four-wheelers?
What factors influence their buying decisions?
Why are consumers hesitant to adopt EVs?
What is the future outlook of EVs in Amravati?
1.6 Scope of the Study
The scope of the study is limited to:
Geographical Area: Amravati District
Sector: Automotive (Four-wheelers only)
Focus: Consumer behavior toward EV adoption
Respondents: Car owners and potential buyers
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This study does not cover two-wheelers, commercial EVs, or other regions.
1.7 Significance of the Study
This study is important for multiple stakeholders:
For Consumers:
Helps in understanding benefits of EVs
Provides clarity on cost and performance
For Government:
Helps in policy formulation
Identifies infrastructure gaps
For Manufacturers:
Helps understand customer expectations
Assists in product development and marketing
1.8 Overview of Automotive Sector Transition
The transition from fuel-based to electric vehicles involves:
1.8.1 Traditional Fuel Vehicles
Powered by petrol/diesel
High emissions
Established infrastructure
1.8.2 Electric Vehicles
Powered by battery
Zero emissions
Lower running cost
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1.8.3 Key Differences
Factor Fuel Vehicles Electric Vehicles
Fuel Cost High Low
Maintenanc High Low
e
Pollution High Zero
Initial Cost Moderate High
1.9 Factors Driving EV Adoption
Environmental awareness
Government subsidies
Rising fuel prices
Technological advancements
Social influence
1.10 Challenges in EV Adoption
High initial cost
Charging infrastructure shortage
Range anxiety
Lack of awareness
Battery replacement cost
1.11 Limitations of the Study
Limited sample size
Time constraints
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Data accuracy depends on respondents
Study limited to one district
CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF LITERATURE
2.1 Introduction
Review of literature is an essential part of any research study. It involves a
systematic examination of previous research works, articles, reports, and
publications related to the topic. The purpose of reviewing literature is to
understand what has already been studied, identify gaps, and provide a
strong theoretical foundation for the current research.
In the context of this study, the literature review focuses on the transition
from fuel-based vehicles to electric vehicles and the consumer behavior
associated with it. Various national and international studies have been
analyzed to understand the factors influencing EV adoption, challenges
faced by consumers, and future trends.
2.2 Concept of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles are automobiles that are powered by electric motors using
energy stored in rechargeable batteries. Unlike conventional vehicles, they
do not rely on internal combustion engines.
Types of Electric Vehicles:
1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
2. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
3. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
EVs are considered environmentally friendly as they produce zero
emissions and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
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2.3 Global Perspective on EV Adoption
Globally, electric vehicles have gained significant popularity in countries
like Norway, China, and the USA. Governments in these countries have
implemented strong policies, incentives, and infrastructure to promote EV
adoption.
Studies indicate that:
Developed countries show higher EV adoption due to better infrastructure
Consumer awareness plays a crucial role
Government incentives significantly impact purchase decisions
2.4 Indian Scenario of Electric Vehicles
India is one of the fastest-growing automobile markets. The government has
launched several initiatives such as:
FAME Scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles)
Subsidies and tax benefits
Promotion of charging infrastructure
However, EV adoption in India is still at a developing stage, especially in
the four-wheeler segment.
2.5 Consumer Behavior: Concept and Importance
Consumer behavior refers to the study of how individuals make decisions
regarding the purchase and use of products.
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Key Elements:
Psychological factors
Social factors
Economic factors
Cultural factors
Understanding consumer behavior is important to:
Predict market trends
Design effective marketing strategies
Improve customer satisfaction
2.6 Theoretical Framework of Consumer Behavior
1. Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)
This theory suggests that consumer decisions are influenced by:
Attitude
Subjective norms
Perceived behavioral control
2. Innovation Diffusion Theory
This theory explains how new technologies (like EVs) are adopted over
time:
Innovators
Early adopters
Early majority
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Late majority
Laggards
3. Utility Theory
Consumers choose products that provide maximum satisfaction at minimum
cost.
2.7 Review of Empirical Studies
Study 1: Environmental Concern and EV Adoption
Research shows that consumers who are environmentally conscious are
more likely to adopt electric vehicles. Environmental awareness is a key
motivating factor.
Study 2: Cost and Economic Factors
Many studies highlight that high initial cost is a major barrier to EV
adoption. However, lower running cost attracts consumers.
Study 3: Infrastructure Challenges
Lack of charging stations and long charging time discourage consumers
from purchasing EVs.
Study 4: Technological Factors
Battery life, range, and performance play a significant role in consumer
decision-making.
Study 5: Social Influence
Peer influence, family opinion, and social status affect purchasing
decisions.
2.8 Factors Influencing Consumer Behavior Towards EVs
1. Economic Factors
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Purchase price
Maintenance cost
Fuel savings
2. Environmental Factors
Pollution reduction
Sustainability awareness
3. Technological Factors
Battery range
Charging time
Performance
4. Social Factors
Family influence
Social image
5. Government Policies
Subsidies
Tax benefits
Incentives
2.9 Barriers to EV Adoption
Despite advantages, several challenges exist:
High initial cost
Lack of charging infrastructure
Range anxiety
Limited service centers
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Lack of awareness
2.10 Consumer Perception Towards EVs
Consumer perception plays a crucial role in adoption:
Positive Perceptions:
Eco-friendly
Cost-saving in long run
Modern technology
Negative Perceptions:
Expensive
Limited range
Charging inconvenience
2.11 Comparative Studies: Fuel vs Electric Vehicles
Factor Fuel Vehicles Electric Vehicles
Cost Moderate High
Running High Low
Cost
Maintenance High Low
Pollution High Low
Convenience High Moderate
2.12 Research Gap
After reviewing various studies, the following gaps are identified:
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Limited research in semi-urban areas like Amravati
Lack of focus on four-wheelers
Need for localized consumer behavior studies
Insufficient data on awareness levels in smaller districts
This study aims to fill these gaps.
2.13 Summary of Literature Review
The literature review indicates that:
EV adoption is influenced by multiple factors
Environmental concern is a major driver
Cost and infrastructure are major barriers
Consumer awareness is still developing
The findings of previous studies provide a base for conducting this research
in Amravati district.
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CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
Research methodology is a systematic way to solve research problems. It
explains the methods and techniques used for collecting, analyzing, and
interpreting data. This chapter provides a detailed description of the
research design, data sources, sampling methods, and tools used in the
study.
The present study focuses on analyzing consumer behavior toward the
transition from fuel-based four-wheelers to electric four-wheelers in
Amravati district.
3.2 Research Design
The research design used in this study is Descriptive Research Design.
Meaning:
Descriptive research is used to describe characteristics of a population or
phenomenon being studied.
Justification:
Helps understand consumer preferences
Suitable for survey-based studies
Provides accurate and systematic data
3.3 Nature of Study
Type: Analytical and Descriptive
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Approach: Quantitative
Method: Survey Method
3.4 Sources of Data
1. Primary Data
Primary data is collected directly from respondents.
Methods Used:
Structured Questionnaire
Personal Interaction
2. Secondary Data
Secondary data is collected from existing sources.
Sources:
Government reports
Research papers
Journals
Websites
Articles
3.5 Data Collection Method
The main method used for collecting data is a structured questionnaire.
Features of Questionnaire:
Simple and easy to understand
Close-ended questions
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Multiple-choice options
Logical sequence
3.6 Sampling Design
1. Population
Consumers in Amravati district (car owners and potential buyers)
2. Sample Size
100 respondents
3. Sampling Method
Convenience Sampling
Meaning:
Respondents are selected based on availability and willingness.
3.7 Sampling Framework
Criteria Description
Area Amravati District
Respondents Car users / Buyers
Sample Size 100
Method Convenience Sampling
3.8 Tools for Data Analysis
The following tools are used:
1. Percentage Method
Used to represent data in percentage form.
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Formula:
Number of respondents
Percentage= ×100
Total respondents
2. Tabulation
Data is presented in table format.
3. Charts & Graphs
Pie charts
Bar graphs
4. Simple Interpretation
Data is analyzed in simple descriptive form.
3.9 Hypothesis of the Study
A hypothesis is a tentative assumption made for testing.
Null Hypothesis (H₀):
There is no significant relationship between consumer behavior and
adoption of electric vehicles.
Alternative Hypothesis (H₁):
There is a significant relationship between consumer behavior and adoption
of electric vehicles.
3.10 Variables of the Study
Independent Variables:
Income
Awareness
Price
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Infrastructure
Dependent Variable:
Consumer preference for EVs
CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS &
INTERPRETATION
4.1 Introduction
Data analysis is the process of organizing, summarizing, and interpreting
collected data to draw meaningful conclusions. In this study, primary data
has been collected from 100 respondents in Amravati district using a
structured questionnaire.
The data is analysed using:
Percentage method
Tables
Charts (Pie & Bar)
Each table is followed by interpretation.
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🔷 4.2 Demographic Analysis
4.2.1 Age-wise Distribution
Age Group Respondents Percentage
Below 25 20 20%
25–35 40 40%
36–45 25 25%
Above 45 15 15%
Total 100 100%
Chart Title
45
40
40
35
30
25
25
20
20
15
15
10
5
20% 40% 25% 15%
0
Below 25 25–35 36–45 Above 45
Respondents Percentage
Interpretation:
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Majority of respondents (40%) belong to the 25–35 age group. This shows
that young and middle-aged people are more interested in automobile
decisions.
4.2.2 Gender-wise Distribution
Gender Respondent Percentage
s
Male 70 70%
Female 30 30%
Total 100 100%
Respondents
30%
Male
Female
70%
Interpretation:
Male respondents dominate the sample, indicating that vehicle purchase
decisions are still largely male-driven in the region.
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4.2.3 Occupation
Occupatio Respondents Percentage
n
Student 20 20%
Business 30 30%
Service 35 35%
Others 15 15%
Occupation
Respondents Percentage
35
30
20
15
20% 30% 35% 15%
Student Business Service Others
Interpretation:
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Most respondents are from service and business sectors, indicating financial
capability to purchase vehicles.
🔷 4.3 Awareness About Electric Vehicles
4.3.1 Awareness Level
Response Respondents Percentage
Yes 75 75%
No 25 25%
Respondents
No
Yes
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Interpretation:
A majority (75%) of respondents are aware of electric vehicles, showing
increasing awareness in Amravati.
4.3.2 Source of Awareness
Source Respondent Percentage
s
Internet 30 30%
TV/Ads 25 25%
Friends/Family 20 20%
Showrooms 25 25%
Chart Title
35
30
25
20
15
10
0
Internet TV/Ads Friends/Family Showrooms
Respondents Percentage
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Interpretation:
Internet and advertisements are the main sources of awareness.
🔷 4.4 Consumer Preference
4.4.1 Vehicle Preference
Type Respondents Percentage
Fuel Vehicles 60 60%
Electric Vehicles 40 40%
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Respondents
Electric Vehicles
40% Fuel Vehicles
Electric Vehicles
Fuel Vehicles
60%
Interpretation:
Fuel-based vehicles are still preferred, but EV adoption is gradually
increasing.
4.4.2 Willingness to Buy EV
Response Respondents Percentage
Yes 45 45%
No 30 30%
Not Sure 25 25%
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Respondents
Not
Sure
Yes
No
Interpretation:
45% are willing to purchase EVs, indicating positive future potential.
🔷 4.5 Factors Influencing Purchase Decision
4.5.1 Key Factors
Factor Respondents Percentage
Price 35 35%
Fuel Saving 25 25%
Environment 20 20%
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Brand 10 10%
Technology 10 10%
Key Factors
35
25
20
10 10
Price35% 25%
Fuel Saving 20%
Environment 10%
Brand 10%
Technology
Respondents Percentage
Interpretation:
Price is the most important factor influencing purchase decisions.
🔷 4.6 Problems in EV Adoption
4.6.1 Major Challenges
Problem Respondents Percentage
Charging 40 40%
Infrastructure
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High Cost 30 30%
Range Anxiety 20 20%
Lack of Awareness 10 10%
Chart Title
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Charging Infrastructure High Cost Range Anxiety Lack of Awareness
Respondents Percentage
Interpretation:
Charging infrastructure is the biggest challenge faced by consumers.
🔷 4.7 Comparative Analysis
4.7.1 Fuel vs Electric Vehicles
Factor Fuel Vehicles Electric Vehicles
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Initial Cost Moderate High
Running High Low
Cost
Maintenance High Low
Pollution High Low
Interpretation:
EVs are better in long-term cost and environmental impact, but high initial
cost is a barrier.
🔷 4.8 Hypothesis Testing (Basic Explanation)
Hypothesis:
H₀: No relationship between consumer behavior and EV adoption
H₁: Significant relationship exists
Result (Based on Data):
Since many respondents consider price, awareness, and infrastructure, H₁ is
accepted.
Interpretation:
Consumer behavior significantly affects EV adoption.
🔷 4.9 Overall Findings from Data
Majority are aware of EVs
Fuel vehicles still dominate
Young consumers show more interest in EVs
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Price and infrastructure are key barriers
Future demand for EVs is promising
This chapter analyzed the data collected from respondents in Amravati
district. It revealed that while awareness about electric vehicles is
increasing, actual adoption is still limited due to practical challenges.
However, the future outlook for EVs is positive.
CHAPTER 5: FINDINGS, SUGGESTIONS &
CONCLUSION
5.1 Introduction
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This chapter presents the major findings of the study based on data analysis,
followed by practical suggestions and the overall conclusion. It summarizes
the entire research on consumer behavior toward the transition from fuel-
based four-wheelers to electric four-wheelers in Amravati district.
🔷 5.2 Findings of the Study
Based on the analysis in Chapter 4, the following key findings are observed:
5.2.1 General Findings
Majority of respondents belong to the 25–35 age group, showing that young
consumers are more active in vehicle decisions.
Male respondents dominate the survey, indicating traditional decision-
making patterns.
Most respondents are from service and business sectors, showing
purchasing capability.
5.2.2 Awareness Findings
A large number of respondents are aware of electric vehicles.
The internet and advertisements are the main sources of awareness.
Awareness is higher among younger and educated consumers.
5.2.3 Preference Findings
Fuel-based vehicles are still preferred by the majority.
However, a significant portion of respondents are interested in electric
vehicles.
Many consumers are undecided, indicating confusion or lack of information.
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5.2.4 Purchase Decision Factors
Price is the most important factor influencing purchase decisions.
Consumers also consider:
o Fuel savings
o Environmental benefits
o Technology and brand image
5.2.5 Problems in EV Adoption
The study identified several challenges:
Lack of charging infrastructure
High initial cost of EVs
Range anxiety (fear of battery running out)
Lack of awareness in some areas
5.2.6 Behavioral Findings
Consumers are interested but hesitant
Decision-making is influenced by:
o Economic condition
o Social influence
o Practical convenience
5.2.7 Future Outlook Findings
Many respondents show willingness to buy EVs in the future
EV demand is expected to increase with:
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o Better infrastructure
o Reduced cost
o Government support
🔷 5.3 Suggestions
Based on the findings, the following suggestions are recommended:
5.3.1 For Government
Increase number of charging stations in Amravati
Provide subsidies and tax benefits
Conduct awareness campaigns
Promote EV-friendly policies
5.3.2 For Automobile Companies
Reduce the initial cost of EVs
Improve battery performance and range
Offer after-sales services
Create attractive financing options
5.3.3 For Consumers
Increase awareness about long-term savings
Consider environmental benefits
Stay updated with EV technology
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5.3.4 For Infrastructure Development
Develop charging stations at:
o Petrol pumps
o Parking areas
o Highways
Promote fast-charging technology
5.3.5 For Researchers
Conduct more studies in rural areas
Analyze long-term EV performance
Study impact of government policies
🔷 5.4 Conclusion
The study concludes that the transition from fuel-based four-wheelers to
electric four-wheelers is inevitable but gradual. While awareness about
electric vehicles is increasing in Amravati district, actual adoption is still
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limited due to practical challenges such as high cost and lack of
infrastructure.
Consumers show a positive attitude toward EVs, especially younger
generations, but their purchasing decisions are influenced by economic and
practical factors. With continuous efforts from the government,
manufacturers, and society, electric vehicles have the potential to become
the future of transportation.
Thus, the study highlights that consumer behavior plays a crucial role in the
adoption of electric vehicles, and addressing their concerns is essential for
accelerating this transition.
🔷 5.5 Limitations of the Study
Study limited to Amravati district
Small sample size
Time constraints
Responses may be biased
🔷 5.6 Scope for Future Research
Study can be expanded to other cities
Can include two-wheelers and commercial EVs
Comparative studies across states
Impact of EV policies
BIBLIOGRAPHY
🔷 Books
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Kothari C.R. Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques, New Age
International Publishers, New Delhi.
Philip Kotler Marketing Management, Pearson Education.
Schiffman & Kanuk Consumer Behavior, Prentice Hall.
V.S.P. Rao Business Research Methods, Excel Books.
🔷 Journals & Research Papers
International Journal of Research in Marketing – Articles on consumer
behaviour and EV adoption.
Journal of Cleaner Production – Studies on environmental impact of electric
vehicles.
Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment – Research on
EV adoption trends.
International Energy Agency (IEA) – Global EV outlook reports.
🔷 Websites
Ministry of Heavy Industries – [Link]
NITI Aayog – [Link]
Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) – [Link]
International Energy Agency (IEA) – [Link]
Invest India – [Link]
🔷 Reports
McKinsey & Company – Electric Vehicle Market Reports
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Deloitte – Global Automotive Consumer Study
IBEF (India Brand Equity Foundation) – EV Industry Report
🔷 Newspapers & Magazines
The Economic Times – Articles on EV growth
Business Standard – Automotive sector updates
The Times of India – EV adoption news
🔷 Other Sources
Government notifications on EV policies
Online articles and blogs related to electric vehicles
Company websites of automobile manufacturers
QUESTIONNAIRE
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“A Study on Consumer Behaviour Towards Transition from Fuel-Based
Four Wheelers to Electric Four Wheelers in Amravati District”
🔷 SECTION A: GENERAL INFORMATION
1. Name (Optional): __________________________
2. Age Group:
☐ Below 25
☐ 25–35
☐ 36–45
☐ Above 45
3. Gender:
☐ Male
☐ Female
☐ Other
4. Occupation:
☐ Student
☐ Business
☐ Service
☐ Others
5. Monthly Income:
☐ Below ₹20,000
☐ ₹20,000 – ₹50,000
☐ ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
☐ Above ₹1,00,000
🔷 SECTION B: VEHICLE OWNERSHIP
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6. Do you own a four-wheeler?
☐ Yes
☐ No
7. If yes, what type of vehicle do you own?
☐ Petrol
☐ Diesel
☐ Electric
☐ Hybrid
🔷 SECTION C: AWARENESS ABOUT ELECTRIC VEHICLES
8. Are you aware of electric four-wheelers?
☐ Yes
☐ No
9. Source of awareness:
☐ Internet
☐ TV/Advertisements
☐ Friends/Family
☐ Showroom
☐ Others
🔷 SECTION D: PREFERENCE & BUYING BEHAVIOR
10. Which type of vehicle do you prefer?
☐ Fuel-based vehicle
☐ Electric vehicle
11. Are you willing to purchase an electric vehicle in future?
☐ Yes
☐ No
☐ Not Sure
12. What factors influence your decision? (Select any one)
☐ Price
☐ Fuel saving
☐ Environmental concern
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☐ Brand
☐ Technology
🔷 SECTION E: PERCEPTION ABOUT ELECTRIC VEHICLES
13. Do you think electric vehicles are environmentally friendly?
☐ Yes
☐ No
☐ Not Sure
14. Do you think EVs are cost-effective in the long run?
☐ Yes
☐ No
☐ Not Sure
15. How do you rate EV performance compared to fuel vehicles?
☐ Better
☐ Same
☐ Worse
🔷 SECTION F: PROBLEMS & CHALLENGES
16. What are the major problems in adopting EVs?
☐ High cost
☐ Charging issues
☐ Limited range
☐ Lack of awareness
17. Do you think charging infrastructure is sufficient in your area?
☐ Yes
☐ No
🔷 SECTION G: SUGGESTIONS
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18. What improvements are needed to promote EV adoption?
☐ Lower price
☐ More charging stations
☐ Better battery
☐ Awareness programs
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