Published in the research journal Transport Policy, this study paints a somewhat different picture than other studies assessing the equity of EV incentives. It uses a large amount of relatively recent data and some simple but powerful metrics to update and re-calibrate the conversation about where progress is being made, and where a longer road ahead remains. Further, it decomposes the differences between EV rebate recipients and the general population into two parts: 1) differences between the population and new-car buyers and 2) differences between new-car buyers and EV rebate recipients. Doing so highlights where, and the degree to which, previous findings that used census data might be findings about structural inequities in new-car buying rather than particular to EVs. More importantly, understanding the component parts, and how they vary for each demographic, better informs targeted strategies to increase equity and the widespread adoption of EVs.
- Characterizes electric vehicle (EV) rebate recipient demographics with updated data
- Comparison to new-car buyers paints a different picture than census data
- Home ownership, male gender distinguish EVs more than some metrics of income, race
- Calibrates conversations about the equity of electric vehicles and incentives
- Develops metrics of progress toward mainstream markets and priority populations
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