Driving change? Exploring the role of socio-technical experiments in shaping autonomous mobility transitions

Abstract

This systematic literature review inquires into the role of socio-technical experiments for autonomous driving and their potential to shape mobility transitions towards sustainability. As an emerging technology in an early stage of transition, AVs are increasingly being tested in different spatial contexts with diverse actor constellations in order to enhance the technology further. This article critically examines the added value of these experiments, how they affect the scaling-up of autonomous driving, and highlights key themes that researchers and practitioners should consider when designing experiments. The most striking aspect of our sample is the lack of continuous participatory methods, as well as weak linkages to the transition literature. Reflecting upon how existing experiments link to the core characteristics of socio-technical experiments, we derive central findings for future research avenues: Scaling-up of AVs requires greater involvement of policymakers and enhanced place-specific approaches, while comprehensive co-design experimentation relies on robust, long-term research infrastructures.