Preferences for alternative fuel vehicles by Dutch local governments

Using a choice model, we estimate the preferences for alternative fuel vehicles by Dutch local governments. The analysis shows that local governments are willing to pay between 25% and 50% extra for an alternative fuel vehicle without a serious loss of utility. Further, local emissions are an important criterion on which to base a decision, especially for municipalities and provinces. We also calculate the utility for a number of prominent alternative fuel vehicles. We find that show that local governments value the battery electric vehicle and biogas internal combustion engine equally. It is important, however, that the time to refuel for electric vehicles is reduced to about 30 min.

► Preferences for alternative fuel vehicles by Dutch local governments are examined.
► Purchase price and local emissions are the most important attributes when choosing a vehicle type.
► Governments are willing to pay 25–50% extra for alternative vehicles without serious utility loss.
► Respondents value the battery electric vehicle and the biogas internal combustion engine equally.