Exploring the Willingness to Embrace Automated Vehicles: A Survey-Based Study for the Portuguese context

This study assesses the willingness of the Portuguese population to adopt automated vehicles (AVs) in public and private transport. Key factors influencing AV acceptance were considered including knowledge and awareness, trust and perception, willingness to use, usage preferences, and environmental concerns. A structured survey of 425 participants was conducted, analysing sociodemographic variables, transport habits, and attitudes toward AVs. Analysis identified five key themes: a) optimism and AV adoption, b) environmental awareness, c) knowledge of AVs, d) geographical location, and e) concerns and discomfort. Results highlight critical factors influencing public acceptance of AVs in Portugal, including issues concerning safety, economic feasibility, and trust as significant barriers. The relatively low adoption of public transport in rural areas presents an additional challenge for AV implementation in these regions. The study indicates potential for AV adoption in Portugal, as almost 70% of respondents expressed willingness to use a partially or fully automated vehicle, with technological optimism and positive environmental perceptions emerging as significant positive predictors of willingness. Yet, achieving widespread acceptance requires addressing safety concerns, lack of trust, and infrastructure concerns through targeted policy interventions and public engagement initiatives.