A Co-Created, Community-Informed Model for Electric Vehicle Adoption in Disadvantaged Communities

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Urban Planning
• Sociology

Background:

• Electric vehicle (EV) adoption is crucial for environmental sustainability.
• Disadvantaged urban communities face unique barriers to EV adoption.
• Community engagement is vital for developing effective adoption strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To co-create a community-informed model for electric vehicle (EV) adoption.
• To identify determinants, strategies, and outcomes for EV adoption in disadvantaged urban settings.
• To ensure EV adoption is perceived as acceptable, feasible, and appropriate by residents.

Main Methods:

• Conducted three focus groups (one English, two Spanish) with 29 residents from six disadvantaged urban communities in Southeast Los Angeles.
• Engaged a Community Advisory Council in preparing the interview guide and reviewing findings.
• Developed a logic model based on participant input regarding EV ownership benefits, obstacles, and recommendations.

Main Results:

• Social, environmental, and personal benefits were identified as motivations for EV ownership.
• Cost, limited charging infrastructure, and lack of information were primary obstacles to EV adoption.
• Community input highlighted the need for strategies addressing these barriers to promote EV uptake.

Conclusions:

• A community-informed model can guide the promotion of EV adoption in disadvantaged communities.
• Addressing cost, infrastructure, and information gaps is essential for successful EV implementation.
• Community engagement ensures EV adoption strategies align with resident needs and perceptions.