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Exploring factors influencing user Re-ride intentions in shared autonomous shuttle vehicles

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  • Sheykhfard, Abbas
  • Azmoodeh, Mohammad
  • Das, Subasish
  • Ye, Xinyue
  • Koppel, Sjaan

Abstract

This study examines the adoption of shared autonomous shuttle vehicles (SASVs) as a promising solution to urban mobility challenges. Survey data from a North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) SASV trial, in which a low-speed autonomous shuttle operated in both park and university campus environments, were analyzed. The survey measured variables such as operational reliability, safety perceptions, motivational drivers, and demographic factors and their association with the dependent variable of intention to re-ride. Results indicate that operational experience, primarily timeliness, efficiency, and positive interactions with onboard attendants, emerges as the strongest predictor of re-ride intentions. Safety perceptions significantly shifted after direct exposure, underscoring the power of hands-on experience in alleviating skepticism toward fully autonomous transport. A dual dynamic emerges among motivational factors: although novelty and curiosity serve as initial attractors, practical considerations, particularly speed, route coverage, and comfort, ultimately govern sustained utilization. Younger, tech-savvy users exhibit higher receptivity, whereas older individuals emphasize the importance of tangible safety demonstrations and supportive personnel. The findings indicate that policy efforts should prioritize operational reliability, hands-on safety experiences, and adapted outreach to different age groups for successful and sustainable SASV adoption.

Suggested Citation

  • Sheykhfard, Abbas & Azmoodeh, Mohammad & Das, Subasish & Ye, Xinyue & Koppel, Sjaan, 2026. "Exploring factors influencing user Re-ride intentions in shared autonomous shuttle vehicles," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 175(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:trapol:v:175:y:2026:i:c:s0967070x25004378
    DOI: 10.1016/j.tranpol.2025.103894
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