How will women use automated vehicles? Exploring the role of automated vehicles from women’s perspective

Abstract

The emergence of automated vehicles promises a revolution in urban mobility. To benefit from a new mobility system, women who have specific mobility considerations necessitate inclusion in designing automated vehicles. This study explores women’s perspectives and the potential impact of automated vehicles through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. Results demonstrate concerns among women about safety in current mobility systems, vulnerabilities regarding personal safety, and stereotypes about female drivers. Additionally, mothers face additional challenges managing items for children and their demands during travel, and senior women consider safety issues and declining capabilities when contemplating driving cessation. Current experience with mobility is reflected in concerns and visions regarding automated vehicles. The absence of a driver is expressed as improved safety in driverless taxis, while it is perceived as a safety concern in automated public transportation. Mothers with children anticipate convenience in travel, whereas senior women expect enhanced mobility and social participation. These findings underscore the importance of safety in women’s mobility experiences and provide insights into addressing safety and interaction issues in the design of automated vehicles. Researchers, transportation authorities, and vehicle manufacturers can leverage these results to understand women’s needs better and consider them in future designs and policy developments for automated vehicles. Prioritising women’s perspectives in automated vehicle research is essential to realising the innovative potential of this technology and fostering a more inclusive and accessible future in urban mobility.