Comparative analysis of perceptions and attitudes of fossil and electric vehicle users

This thesis, titled "Comparative Analysis of Perceptions and Attitudes of Fossil and Electric Vehicle Users" aims to examine and compare the economic costs and environmental impacts of fossil fuel and electric vehicles. The study is driven by growing environmental concerns, the depletion of fossil fuels, and the urgent need for sustainable transportation systems. Although electric vehicles offer significant potential for reducing carbon emissions and decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, issues such as lithium-ion battery production and recycling raise environmental debates. Economically, while lower charging and maintenance costs present advantages, high initial purchase costs and inadequate charging infrastructure limit widespread adoption. In European countries, incentives and well-developed infrastructure have accelerated the adoption of electric vehicles. In contrast, infrastructure deficiencies and insufficient support policies in Turkey have hindered user adoption. Within this context, user perceptions and usage habits regarding fossil and electric vehicles in both Turkey and Europe were analyzed through survey data. Findings reveal that users of electric vehicles value environmental sustainability; however, concerns about driving range and charging accessibility significantly influence their adoption decisions.