A qualitative examination of drivers' responses to partially automated vehicles

There has been an increase of automated vehicle (AV) technologies in recent years. Using qualitative methods, this study explored drivers' responses to the experience of AVs centered on theoretical themes of trust, particularly around ability, helpfulness, and integrity as well as individual factors of identity, norms, and efficacy. Participants (n = 68, Mage = 43.2 years) first completed a 20-minute drive in an advanced high-fidelity driving simulator that simulated driving an AV with intermittent periods of manual vehicle control. Participants identified consideration of financial concerns and described a need to trust that the AV system worked as expected and that it would function similar to human drivers, including their speed management. They also identified trust with regard to potential benefits (helpfulness regarding mobility and secondary task performance). Hacking and privacy were identified integrity issues, although primarily privacy was not considered relevant to their behaviour. The findings from participant interviews also revealed that individual difference constructs around identity (as an early technology adopter or 'car' person), social norms, and efficacy were important factors in their intentions to drive or own a fully AV. Finally the participants described emotive outcomes, relating to benefits of relaxing or reducing stress and use being fun and safe. Overall, these findings provide some insights into the way in which drivers' describe the benefits and potential concerns associated with emerging AV technologies.