ACCEPTANCE OF E-VEHICLES FOR LAST-MILE PARCEL DELIVERY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF DRIVERS: A STUDY IN TURKIYE

Background: Last-mile delivery constitutes the most inefficient and costly part of logistics processes, thus increasing the importance of research in this area. Numerous alternative solutions and current technological advancements are being investigated to reduce the negative effects and make it more efficient and cost-effective. One of these alternatives is the use of electric vehicles for last-mile delivery. There is limited research on factors influencing user acceptance in the literature, and also a lack of studies on factors influencing driver acceptance. In this study, the authors aim to investigate the factors influencing drivers' acceptance of using electric vehicles for LMD of small and medium-sized parcels.

Methods: This study examines the factors influencing drivers' acceptance of e-vehicles for last-mile delivery within the framework of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). In addition to the basic TAM variables, the current research adds the independent variables of environmental concern and enjoyment to the conceptual model.

Results: Based on data from 180 participants in Turkiye, it was observed that environmental concern and perceived ease of use did not have an impact on perceived usefulness. Furthermore, the lack of influence of enjoyment on intentions is another important finding of the research. However, the other hypotheses were supported.

Conclusions: Based on the present research It is understood that drivers need time to fully adopt electric vehicles. The increasing integration and automation efforts among relevant parties, as well as the adaptation of vehicles for large-scale shipments, will contribute to the increased use of electric vehicles. Besides, technical issues related to electric vehicle delivery, as well as traffic regulations, should be promptly planned, and real-life tests and pilot programs should be accelerated and expanded.