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Enhancing autonomous vehicle acceptance with age and education sensitive simulation interventions: an experimental trial

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  • Kacperski, Celina
  • Ulloa, Roberto
  • Wautelet, Jérémy
  • Vogel, Tobias
  • Kutzner, Florian

Abstract

The familiarity principle posits that acceptance increases with exposure, which has previously been shown with in vivo and simulated experiences with connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs). We investigate the impact of a simulated video-based first-person drive on CAV acceptance, as well as the impact of information customization, with a particular focus on acceptance by older individuals and those with lower education. Findings from an online experiment with N = 799 German residents reveal that the simulated experience improved acceptance across response variables such as intention to use and ease of use, particularly among older individuals. However, the opportunity to customize navigation information decreased acceptance of older individuals and those with university degrees and increased acceptance for younger individuals and those with lower educational levels.

Suggested Citation

  • Kacperski, Celina & Ulloa, Roberto & Wautelet, Jérémy & Vogel, Tobias & Kutzner, Florian, 2025. "Enhancing autonomous vehicle acceptance with age and education sensitive simulation interventions: an experimental trial," Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, Elsevier, vol. 194(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:transa:v:194:y:2025:i:c:s0965856425000436
    DOI: 10.1016/j.tra.2025.104415
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