Abstract:
This dissertation examines the outcomes and effectiveness of public policies designed to
promote the adoption of hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs). As a primary methodology, I
employ cross-sectional analysis of hybrid registration data over time for U.S. states and
Virginia municipalities to examine the relationship between hybrid adoption and a variety
of socioeconomic and policy variables. I also compare hybrid adoption patterns over time
to the U.S. average for specific states that have changed incentive policies, to determine
whether these policy changes are consistent with significant changes in adoption patterns.
The results of these analyses suggest a strong relationship between gasoline prices and
hybrid adoption, but a much weaker relationship between incentive policies and hybrid
adoption. Incentives that allow hybrids to access High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes
with only one occupant may also be effective in promoting adoption, but only under
specific circumstances and with the potential for significant unintended consequences.
