Distrust and false information hindering widespread adoption of electric vehicles
In a recent study published in the Springer Nature Energy journal, researchers from the University of Queensland and three German institutions delved into the prevalence and roots of misconceptions about electric vehicles (EVs) among Australians. The findings, released just days after the NRMA published a report stating that two in three Australians remain concerned about EV battery fires and safety despite low incident reports, underscore the importance of addressing the prevalence of misinformation about energy-efficient technologies like EVs.
The study, which included surveys of over 6300 people in Australia, the United States, Germany, and Austria, found that more than a third of Australians believe misinformation about EVs. Incorrect statements that EVs were more likely to catch fire than petrol or diesel cars gained the highest acceptance from Australians surveyed (47%). Furthermore, almost half of Australians accept the myth that battery-powered cars are more likely to catch fire.
Another concerning claim, that manufacturing outweighs the lower emissions of electric cars (35%), and EV accidents being under-reported (26%) were also highlighted in the study. Additionally, 44% of Australians also believed that EV batteries were deliberately non-upgradeable.
The study's results mirrored concerns in the NRMA study about misinformation preventing motorists from investing in low-emission cars. To combat this issue, the researchers propose a multi-level strategy combining social proof from EV users, clear scientific communication via trusted intermediaries, cognitive inoculation against misinformation tactics, and engagement in broader societal conversations.
Leveraging trusted social models, such as current EV drivers, to share accurate information via social media and peer networks is one key approach. Studies show that many EV owners believe some myths but still choose EVs; their real-world endorsement can indirectly counter misinformation.
Providing clear, scientifically backed resources framed as practical guides through trusted intermediaries like dealers and community managers is another approach. For example, Spain's "Decalogue of Electric Vehicle Safety" uses rigid scientific data to respond to frequent concerns, helping dealers become credible advisors and increasing public confidence.
Using cognitive "vaccination" techniques where weakened doses of misinformation are presented to build resistance to full-blown conspiracy theories is another strategy. This involves educating people on the tactics rather than just facts to immunize their cognition against misinformation.
Shifting the conversation to broader, relatable urban and mobility issues is also suggested to engage different perspectives, thus indirectly disrupting entrenched conspiratorial thinking. Activist-led provocative interventions (like reimagining cars in society) aim to "shock" and rethink social norms, which may reduce dogmatic resistance to EV facts.
Avoiding direct confrontations with conspiracy mindsets by focusing on empathetic communication and gradual exposure to verified, consistent information through trusted channels is also recommended.
Dr. Bretter, a researcher involved in the study, stated that this finding represents an avenue for future research. The study also found that rates of belief in EV misinformation were also higher among those with weaker environmental views, women, and older participants. The acceptance of EV misinformation was found to be higher among people with a "conspiracy mentality", regardless of education level.
Both conversations with OpenAI's ChatGPT and reading a US Department of Energy fact sheet delivered "modest increases in pro-EV sentiment", according to the study. The researchers hope that their findings will contribute to a more informed public and a smoother transition towards more sustainable transport options.
- The study revealed that over a third of Australians believe misinformation about electric vehicles (EVs), with incorrect statements such as EVs being more likely to catch fire than petrol or diesel cars, the deliberate non-upgradeability of EV batteries, and EV accidents being under-reported.
- To combat the issue of misinformation, researchers propose a multi-level strategy including leveraging trusted social models such as current EV drivers, providing clear scientific resources via dealers, engaging in broader societal conversations, using cognitive inoculation techniques, and avoiding direct confrontations with conspiracy mindsets.
