Combining samples to offset nonresponse and respondent biases

•A representative sampling strategy that resulted in an overrepresentation of electric vehicle enthusiasts was counterbalanced with an on-line paid for opinion sample.•Surveys on new technology should be mindful of overoptimism and adopt a sampling strategy that does not rely entirely on voluntary participation.•A stated vehicle choice model is combined with an inquiry into respondent’s attitudes towards electric vehicles to estimate trade-offs between vehicle attributes and the purchase price.