Does range matter? Exploring perceptions of electric vehicles with and without a range extender among potential early adopters in Germany

High CO2 emissions, air pollution and fossil fuel consumption require an energy transition in the transportation sector. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) represent one way to achieve this. However, limited range is one of the major barriers to their widespread adoption. A BEV with a range extender (i.e., extended range electric vehicle, EREV) could be one sustainable solution to this problem. The present study examines the acceptance of EREVs relative to BEVs among a sample of early adopters. Specifically, we investigate whether indicators of mobility needs and acceptability of range extender usage predict individual differences in acceptance of EREVs versus BEVs. In total, 112 potential early adopters of EVs in Germany with previous limited-range mobility experience were surveyed. On average, both vehicle concepts were highly appreciated; however, BEVs were appreciated slightly more. EREVs with higher total range received higher valuation ratings, but only if there was no significant reduction in battery range. Yet, there were also substantial individual differences in acceptance of EREVs versus BEVs. These differences were related to certain indicators of mobility needs and the acceptability of range extender usage.