Do non-ionizing radiation concerns affect people's choice between hybrid and traditional cars?

Abstract

Overview

The growing market for hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) has spurred investigations into the effects of non-ionizing radiation (NIR) exposure from these vehicles. This pioneering study examines how NIR influences consumer decisions between HEVs and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Findings

• NIR exposure is found to reduce the likelihood of choosing HEVs.
• Concerns about NIR (NIR-dread) increase the probability of selecting ICE vehicles, while skepticism around NIR implications tends to favor choosing HEVs.
• Both positively and negatively framed information regarding NIR seem to deter HEV choices compared to scenarios with no provided information.

Conclusion and Policy Recommendations

The research underscores the deterrent effect of NIR on HEV selection and emphasizes necessary regulatory frameworks to maintain low NIR standards in car manufacturing. It reveals the importance of information quality and recommends setting international NIR safety standards to support the adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles. Additionally, it highlights that NIR dread negatively influences HEV choices, suggesting that effective and well-communicated scientific studies could mitigate concerns and support informed consumer decisions.