Does acceptance of driver monitoring systems differ across countries? A latent profile analysis approach

Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) are poised to become a standard safety feature in new vehicles, with regulations in regions such as the European Union mandating their inclusion. Yet little is known about how privacy and security concerns influence their acceptance. This study investigated attitudes towards DMS among 9025 licensed drivers from nine countries (Germany, Spain, France, Japan, Poland, Sweden, United Kingdom, United States, and China). Participants rated their acceptance, concerns (including data collection, secondary use, and perceived insecurity), and behavioural intention to use DMS. Through Latent Profile Analysis, five distinct user profiles were identified: Enthusiasts, Somewhat enthusiastic, Moderate, Sceptical, and Resistant, each exhibiting systematic differences in acceptance, concerns, and behavioural intentions. Cross-national comparisons revealed significant cultural variations, with Enthusiasts and Somewhat enthusiastic profiles being more prevalent in China, whereas Resistant and Sceptical profiles were disproportionately represented in France, United Kingdom, and Sweden. Notably, age and gender effects were significant, as older drivers and women were more likely to belong to the resistant profile. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted interventions, transparent data handling policies, and culturally tailored communication strategies to enhance user acceptance of DMS and the widespread adoption as part of the broader transition towards automated and connected driving systems.