Introduction: Understanding the Development of the Market for Electric Vehicles

Many books have been written about plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) technology. However passenger cars are consumer products and ultimately the market success of PEVs requires individual consumers to decide to adopt them. The decision processes behind buying and using PEVs are not yet well understood by the governments that support their adoption and the automotive industry that manufactures them. The aim of this book is therefore to provide stakeholders with an overview of the international evidence currently available as well as the necessary tools to navigate it. By comparing and contrasting the country-specific studies presented in the book, further insights can be derived, some questions answered and new questions asked. This introductory chapter discusses the motivation, intended audience, scope and contents of the book.