Extending the theory of planned behaviour to predict the intention to take the new high-speed rail for intercity travel in Libya: Assessment of the influence of novelty seeking, trust and external influence

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the readiness of car drivers to use High-Speed Rail (HSR) for intercity travel in Libya. This study proposes including three new constructs, i.e. novelty seeking, trust and external influence, in the theory planned behaviour (TPB). A total of 338 respondents from five major cities in Libya (Benghazi, Tripoli, Misrath, Tobruk and Surt) participated in this study. The findings show that the attitude, subjective norms and perceived behaviour control constructs directly and positively influence the behaviour intention of Libyan car users to take the new HSR for intercity travel. Furthermore, the novelty seeking construct seems to have an indirect and positive relationship with behaviour intention via attitude. Trust and external influence were found to have a positive influence on the attitude, subjective norms and perceived behaviour control constructs to take HSR. However, in addition to these antecedents, external influence is also reported to have a direct and positive influence on trust and novelty seeking. Finally, this study derives the theoretical and marketing implications on the transportation field. This study provides useful information which the operator of HSR in Libya could benefit from when formulating strategies to persuade car drivers to choose HSR as an alternative mode of transport for intercity travel.