A spatial analysis of the ownership of alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles

Understanding the ownership of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) and advanced powertrain vehicle technologies is critical for transitioning to low Carbon. This study explores the choices made by early adopters of AFVs. To identify the ownership behavior of early adopters and their attributes, this study uses the 2017 National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) data. This study contributes by providing new evidence about spatial heterogeneity in consumer preferences for AFVs in space using the most recent travel behavior data. The Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) is used to explore the spatially varying correlates of AFV ownership. Results reveal significant spatial variations in the associations of AFV ownership and key factors across the United States. For example, high-income households in Southeastern or Northwestern states are more likely to own an AFV. Seniors are with a greater likelihood of owning an AFV relative to young adults, especially in Northeastern and Northwestern states. The effectiveness of incentives is uneven across different states. The incentives are more effective in Florida than in other parts of the country. The number of alternative fuel stations is positively related to AFV ownership. Other spatially varying correlates are related to household size, education, daily trip distance, and online shopping behavior. The spatial modeling applied in this study is a rigorous analytic technique that researchers and practitioners can use to identify local correlates of AFV ownership. The intended outcome of the study is to provide information about consumer preferences regarding owning AFVs, which can potentially impact our transition to a low Carbon economy.