EV Adoption and Use in Rural and Urban Utah

Abstract: This study investigates the adoption and utilization of electric vehicles (EVs) across both urban and rural Utah, aiming to inform transportation planning strategies for anticipating EV demand statewide. The research is particularly vital considering Utah's unique geographical challenges that exacerbate air quality issues, such as particulate matter and ozone pollution. Given that both urban and rural regions of Utah grapple with air quality concerns, understanding EV use is crucial for mitigating pollution, enhancing public health, and stabilizing transportation costs. Central to this study are inquiries into the factors that influence EV adoption and use in different settings, as well as the challenges and opportunities in expanding EV charging infrastructure (EVCI) in rural areas, especially those with lower population densities and significant seasonal tourism. The lack of a comprehensive understanding of how these factors differ between urban and rural contexts forms a critical knowledge gap, essential for informed EVCI placement decisions across Utah. Employing data from the 2023 Utah Moves Transportation Survey (a household travel survey), this study utilizes statistical and spatial analyses to dissect the intricate web of personal, social, and infrastructural influences on EV adoption and travel behaviors. By examining variables such as age, gender, education, income, and availability of existing EVCI, the research outlines patterns and correlations that are pivotal in shaping policy recommendations. The findings aim to guide the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and other agencies in strategic EVCI siting, thereby helping to meet growing consumer demand for EVs in Utah.