Electrical vehicles in the context of sustainability: An analysis through social media platforms

Abstract

The issue of “accessible and clean energy,” which emerges as the 7th Goal as part of the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations, has become an urgent priority for humanity. In recent years, the necessity to reduce environmental issues and environmental damages necessitates the development and proliferation of alternative and eco-friendly practices. The transportation sector, especially road transportation, is seen as one of the major sources of environmental pollution. Road transportation also makes significant contributions to carbon emissions released into the atmosphere. Therefore, the necessity to reduce carbon emissions and use renewable energy sources is emphasized as an eco-friendly approach. The aim of this study is to examine TOGG, known as Turkey’s first domestic electric car, through content analysis of video content and user comments shared on social media platforms, from a sustainability perspective. Data have been collected from six different YouTube accounts within the scope of this study. It becomes apparent in the context of the study that the concept of sustainability is still not sufficiently understood among the public and that official and private organizations need to increase their awareness efforts within the framework of this concept. Furthermore, it is concluded that the TOGG brand, especially being Turkey’s first domestic electric car, needs to engage more with users and contribute more to sustainable development goals with awareness activities in the field of clean energy.