Title: User stated preferences regarding vehicle-driving automation

Authors: Vincent A.W.J. Marchau, Eric J. E. Molin

Addresses: Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management, Delft University of Technology, PO Box 5015, 2600 GA Delft, The Netherlands. Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management, Delft University of Technology, PO Box 5015, 2600 GA Delft, The Netherlands

Abstract: The introduction of new electronic driver support systems in motor vehicles is expected to improve traffic efficiency and safety significantly. As such, public policy makers are increasingly interested in the implementation possibilities of these systems. Successful implementation of these systems in the near future will largely depend on the willingness of people to buy and use these systems. As to this willingness, not much is known yet. Therefore, in this paper the acceptance of potential users is explored with respect to systems that support drivers in proper distance keeping, lane keeping and lane changing. Attractiveness has been measured by using conjoint analysis techniques. Both drivers and fleet owners of cars, trucks and buses have been surveyed about their preferences regarding several alternatives. Alternative systems were presented based on their functional features, price levels, and impacts on travel time and fuel consumption. On average, drivers and fleet operators consider it neither attractive nor unattractive to have support systems in their vehicle(s). However, the study shows that this finding needs to be qualified, as preferences depend on the specific system characteristics.

Keywords: vehicle-driving automation; user acceptance; stated preferences; public policy making.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTPM.2002.001759

International Journal of Technology, Policy and Management, 2002 Vol.2 No.1, pp.72-89

Published online: 18 Aug 2003 *

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