Suggested Citation:
Peng, Chen, İbrahim Öztürk, Ruth Madigan, Sina Nordhoff, Sascha Hoogendoorn-Lanser, Marjan P. Hagenzieker, Natasha Merat (2025)

Older Passengers’ Expectations About Highly Automated Driving: Implications for Inclusive Designs

. Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California, Davis, Journal Article UCD-ITS-RP-25-104

Abstract:

Understanding older adults’ overall expectations about automated vehicles (AVs) is crucial for inclusive designs. The work-in-progress presents an exploratory study based on semi-structured interviews with 27 older adults in the Netherlands. A thematic analysis revealed an open-minded attitude towards AVs, optimism for improved safety, and pragmatic concerns about reliability. Participants expected AVs to be “well-behaved”, delivering safe, predictable, and socially considerate driving styles. Participants also showed a desire for AVs to be communicative, providing feedback to reduce uncertainties. The findings provide implications for inclusive AV designs.