Work

The impact of personalised digital information on vehicle choices in developing countries

Year: 2026

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: We assess the value of information provision in enabling potential buyers of vehicles to purchase more energy-efficient options in low-income and low-education contexts. Using a randomised controlled trial in Nepal, we test the impact of personalised information provision using a novel digital platform. Applying stated and revealed preference approaches, we find that providing information on five-year operating cost savings, compared to the fuel economy, improves the efficiency of motorcycles selected by respondents; these effects persist for individuals who exhibit certain forms of behavioural anomalies. Our study provides novel evidence on types of information provision that can influence the efficiency of vehicle choices in developing countries.

Source: Journal of Environmental Economics and Management

DOI: 10.1016/j.jeem.2026.103323

Authors: Massimo Filippini, Nilkanth Kumar, Suchita Srinivasan

Institutions: ETH Zurich, Università della Svizzera italiana, University of Otago

Language: English

Topic: Energy, Environment, and Transportation Policies

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,620