Influences of car type class and carbon dioxide emission levels on purchases of new cars: A retrospective analysis of car purchases in Norway

The impact of socio-demographic and psychological factors on purchases of new cars is examined. Data were gathered in an online retrospective survey using a sample of 198 Norwegian households who purchased a new car in December 2010. A latent class analysis was performed to identify car type classes followed by a path analysis to investigate the determinants of the purchased car type class and the influence on the purchased car’s level of carbon dioxide emissions. The results revealed that car type class is the strongest determinant of the car’s level of CO2 emissions. Socio-demographic factors have little impact on choice of car type class when psychological factors are controlled for. Intention to purchase an environmentally friendly car has a direct effect on the car’s CO2 emissions.

► Socio-demographic and psychological variables explain purchases of new cars.
► Car type class is a strong determinant of carbon dioxide emission levels.
► Intention to buy environmentally friendly cars directly impact on carbon dioxide emissions.
► Normative influences on car purchase are indirect.
► Women buy more fuel-efficient cars than men do.