Modeling the adoption of urban air mobility based on technology acceptance and risk perception theories: A case study on flying cars

Abstract

Flying cars, a symbol of Urban Air Mobility (UAM), signify a pivotal step in revolutionizing urban transportation and play a pivotal role in shaping future transport systems. To enhance travelers' willingness to accept flying cars and promote the widespread adoption of this novel transportation mode, this study develops a comprehensive model to explore key factors determining the public's acceptance of flying cars by integrating the Technology Acceptance Model, Risk Perception Theory, and Trust Theory. The validity of the model was confirmed through a rigorous structure equation modeling analysis, utilizing 553 sample data collected from a network questionnaire survey across a diverse demographic of the Chinese market. Results revealed significant associations between the intention to use flying cars and various factors, including attitudes towards usage, perceived usefulness, and personal innovativeness. Heterogeneity analysis further uncovered how demographic factors (such as age, gender, education, and possession of a driver's license) impacted perceptions and acceptance. As the study concludes, despite general optimism, public acceptance of flying cars is strongly influenced by factors such as cost, safety, and privacy concerns play crucial roles in public acceptance. The insights from this study provide valuable implications for manufacturers, policymakers, and marketers in strategizing the introduction and promotion of flying cars.