Real Men Don’t Drive EVs: Are men afraid to switch to electric cars?
According to a new study from the University of Texas, it seems that some guys think buying an EV could damage their tough-guy image. Researchers found that “macho” men prefer gas-guzzling cars, and feel more masculine behind the wheel.
However, experts warn that these outdated attitudes could harm the environment by discouraging people from making the switch to cleaner vehicles.
Dr. Parent recently conducted research with 400 American men about car preferences. Shockingly, 40% of these men considered electric vehicles (EVs) to be the worst option! It seems like many of these men are stuck in old-fashioned beliefs about masculinity.
Dr. Parent says that people often choose products that reflect their identity. Although EVs have great acceleration and cutting-edge technology, some men don’t want to be associated with a “less manly” vehicle.
According to psychologist Louise Goddard-Crawley, loud engines, and powerful cars are often seen as masculine.
These associations are rooted in our evolutionary history, where strength and dominance helped men survive and reproduce.
Electric cars may face a tough sell among traditional “tough guys,” who may see them as less powerful and masculine than gas-powered vehicles, according to a new study.
Researchers found a link between attitudes towards electric cars and ideas of masculinity, suggesting some men may choose a V8-powered Ford Mustang over a quieter, eco-friendly Nissan Leaf.
Though the study is based on hypotheticals and lacks hard data, it adds to the work on how ideas of masculinity affect consumer choices.
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