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Consumer confidence in fully automated self-driving vehicles is showing modest growth, according to the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Mobility Confidence Index (MCI) Study. After two years of decline, the index score for automated vehicle (AV) readiness has risen by two points to 39 on a 100-point scale, matching its level from 2022. Despite this improvement, consumer concerns over safety, data privacy, and the ability to control AVs continue to hinder widespread acceptance.
The study, conducted in collaboration with the MIT Advanced Vehicle Technology Consortium, also reveals that concerns about data privacy are increasingly influencing consumer decisions when purchasing vehicles, with many questioning the security of data collected by AVs. Safety concerns remain a top priority, with most consumers wanting more data on safety performance and the ability to take control of the vehicle if necessary.
Key Highlights:
- AV readiness score increased by two points to 39 after a two-year decline.
- 83% of consumers want more safety statistics before using automated driving technology.
- Data privacy concerns influence 40% of consumers when choosing vehicle brands.
- Drone delivery acceptance is higher (34%) compared to riding in an automated air taxi (16%).
- 71% of consumers do not expect pay-per-ride insurance when using a robotaxi service.
The study highlights that while small gains have been made, there remains significant work to be done to meet consumer expectations. Repeated and consistent reporting of safety findings, as well as clear communication regarding data security, will be crucial in boosting consumer confidence. Additionally, issues such as insurance policies and the availability of Active Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in household vehicles are key factors that could further influence public acceptance of AV technology.
Data privacy and hacking are among the top concerns, with 64% of consumers questioning the safety of data collected by AVs, and 80% wanting more transparency about how automakers prevent hacking. This growing focus on data privacy is already affecting purchasing decisions, with 40% of consumers indicating that data protection policies will influence their choice of vehicle brand.
In terms of new applications of AV technology, consumers showed higher confidence in drone delivery than in riding in automated air taxis, reflecting a mixed level of trust across different forms of automation. Furthermore, parents of teens expressed interest in ADAS technology to enhance the safety of household vehicles.
The J.D. Power 2024 Mobility Confidence Index Study is based on responses from 3,000 U.S. vehicle owners aged 18 or older, ensuring a comprehensive look into public sentiment toward AVs. Despite modest improvements, consumer readiness remains cautious, highlighting the need for continued advancements in safety, transparency, and regulatory measures to support the adoption of fully automated driving technologies.
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