Attitudes Toward the Use of Conditional Automated Vehicles in the Technology Acceptance Model Framework: Evidence...

Area of Science:

• Human-computer interaction
• Transportation research
• Psychology

Background:

• Automated vehicles (AVs) promise improved road safety and mobility.
• Public acceptance is crucial for AV adoption.
• Understanding user attitudes towards intermediate automation levels is key.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt and validate the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) for conditional AVs in an Italian context.
• To investigate the factors influencing the intention to use AVs.
• To provide insights into user acceptance of driving automation.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was administered to 201 Italian-speaking individuals.
• Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze data.
• The study evaluated the factor structure and interrelations within the adapted TAM.

Main Results:

• The adapted TAM demonstrated a satisfactory fit within the Italian sample.
• Perceived utility of AVs directly influenced the intention to use them.
• Concerns about data privacy compliance also impacted AV usage intention.

Conclusions:

• User perception of practical benefits and data privacy are critical for AV acceptance.
• Findings support the importance of utility and ethical considerations in technology adoption.
• The study offers implications for refining TAM and future AV research.