Revolutionizing commutes: Unraveling the factors shaping Chinese consumers' acceptance of shared autonomous vehicles (SAVs) with an integrated UTAUT2 model

Abstract

This study aims to systematically investigate the key factors influencing the acceptance and usage intentions of potential users towards Shared autonomous vehicles (SAVs). To achieve this, we employ an integrated and extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) framework to comprehensively elucidate the factors influencing the intention to use SAVs. We collected 435 survey responses from people residing in China, and structural equation modeling was utilized to confirm the theoretical model. According to the results, factors such as effort expectancy, social influence, hedonic motivation, and facilitating conditions have significant positive effects on the behavioral intention of SAVs, while perceived risk exhibits a significant negative impact. Furthermore, demographic variables (such as age, education level, and occupation) exert significant moderating effects on the model. This study expands the understanding of users' intentions in the context of SAVs, providing valuable insights for a more comprehensive understanding of the public's willingness to accept SAVs.