Mitigating airborne pathogen risk in future shared autonomous vehicles

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified cleanliness concerns in shared transportation modes, particularly among older adults who are more vulnerable to airborne pathogens. This study explores demographic-related preferences for non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in shared autonomous vehicles (SAVs) to mitigate pathogen transmission.

Methods

An online survey was conducted with 438 U.S. participants stratified into younger (18–29), middle-aged (30–64), and older adults (65+). Participants ranked five NPIs—air filters, antimicrobial surfaces, extreme heat, physical barriers, and ultraviolet (UV) light sanitization—based on their comfort and confidence in using SAVs during and after the pandemic.

Results

Results indicate that while all age groups favored air filters, antimicrobial surfaces, and physical barriers, adults aged 69 and older showed a significantly higher preference for UV light sanitization compared to younger cohorts. Extreme heat sanitization was least preferred across all ages.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that tailored communication and adoption of effective NPIs can improve older adults’ confidence in future SAVs, addressing barriers to mobility and public health concerns. These insights can be used by conventional ridesharing providers in the present as well as the SAV developers of the future and policymakers to implement strategies that ensure safe, inclusive, and sustainable transportation solutions.