Accessibility Retrofit of a Shared Automated Vehicle: Challenges and Lessons Learned

Driverless shared automated vehicles (SAVs) have the potential to substantially improve independent mobility for the growing number of older adults and people with disabilities who are unable or ineligible to drive. However, early designs and deployments of SAVs have lacked accommodations for people with disabilities. This article describes a case study where post-production modifications were performed on a commercial electric SAV in an attempt to comply with US accessibility guidelines for conventional vehicles. Findings emphasize the key human factors considerations for physical accessibility and some lessons learned in order to inform the broader conversation about the accessible design of emerging SAVs. The case study highlights the need for considering accessibility and usability early in the design of complex technological systems such as automated vehicles.