Carsharing with shared autonomous vehicles: Uncovering drivers, barriers and future developments – A four-stage Delphi study

Abstract

Autonomous vehicles are expected to disrupt mobility but face consumer reluctance. Diffused through carsharing services, the technology could become more accessible and overcome initial skepticism. Consequently, carsharing with shared autonomous vehicles (SAVs) can provide the combined benefits of autonomous driving technology and access-based consumption. Whereas first investigations into the topic provide projections in adoption preferences and first impacts, the literature lacks a holistic understanding of drivers, barriers, and future developments in carsharing with SAVs over the next ten years. We conducted a four-stage exploratory Delphi-study with 40 international experts to elicit these factors. Key findings include the strong perception of technological aspects, consumer acceptance considerations, and legislative concerns. Remarkably, the factors of sustainability and ethics were perceived as secondary. We conclude our paper with implications and recommendations for managers, policy makers, and future academic research.