Perceptions Of Vehicle Autonomy : A Technology Acceptance Study

Abstract: Today, autonomous systems are rapidly being implemented in the daily life. Automation occurs when a task previously performed by a human is replaced by a machine. One of many new techniques is vehicle autonomy. The most contributing factor to incidents in the traffic environment are the human factor, and one predicts that vehicle autonomy can create a safer traffic environment, such as reducing fatal car crashes and severe injuries. However, the advantage of such novel technology can only be created if it is used and the biggest threat is said to be the human resistance of system implementation. The purpose of our study is to get a deeper understanding of users’ perceptions about vehicle autonomy, particularly future travellers. Additionally, we are interested in investigating if their perceptions are based on different aspects, such as gender and/or age. Two separate methods of empirical evidence are used in this study, a literature study and a survey study, which are analysed quantitatively. The study is mainly based on Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and partly the Car Technology Acceptance Model (CTAM) and a proposal of extending the models is submitted. A survey study is implemented with 125 respondents. The result of our study showed an overall positive attitude and that characteristics play an important role in order to accept vehicle autonomy. The result of this study can contribute to a deeper insight into technology acceptance and vehicle autonomy which can be helpful for different actors in the vehicle industry.