Transforming cities from traditional to sustainability: role of electric vehicles and solar photovoltaic energy in decarbonization

Cities are facing rapid urbanization and climate challenges, and electric vehicles (EVs) and Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) have emerged as essential technologies to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable urban development. Understanding the behavioral dynamics behind their adoption is critical to fostering integrated clean energy and mobility solutions. This study examines the link between the intention to adopt BIPV and the intention to use electric vehicles, using the TPB and SEM based on survey data from 863 respondents. The results indicate that a higher intention to adopt BIPV significantly increases the intention to use EVs (β = 0.62, p < 0.001). PBC (β = 0.59), financial incentives (β = 0.57), and environmental concern (β = 0.51) also emerge as significant positive predictors of EV adoption. Additionally, favorable energy attitudes and greater awareness of solar technologies correlate with stronger preferences for clean mobility solutions. However, while financial incentives enhance adoption intentions, their effect on perceived behavioral control remains limited, suggesting that persistent barriers, such as low trust and limited user knowledge, persist. Theoretically, this research extends TPB by integrating psychosocial factors and policy drivers into a unified model of green technology adoption. Practically, it recommends aligning EV and BIPV policies, strengthening public communication and awareness, and integrating solar infrastructure into urban planning. These strategies aim to accelerate transitions toward smart, sustainable cities, particularly in developing regions.