Impact of Individual Traits, Urban Form, and Urban Character on Selecting Cars as Transportation Mode using the Hierarchical Generalized Linear Model

Abstract

This study investigates certain correlations of the impacts of the individual level, urban character, and urban form on individuals′ selection of cars as a means of transportation. It applies the 5Ds (density, diversity, design, destination accessibility, distance to transit), major elements of urban character and form which are believed to decrease the frequency of choosing to use a car. This expanded concept is widely understood to comprise means to promote walking while reducing automobile use. According to urban form theories, the compact city concept is deemed to reduce both vehicle travel and transport energy consumption. The study applies a hierarchical generalized liner model (HGLM), a statistical technique that simultaneously analyzes individual- and urban-level characteristics. The analysis results show that control at the individual level is required in order to properly analyze effective urban character and urban form elements; this enables a reduction in the choice of using a car. The 5Ds demonstrate a significant relation to decreasing the frequency of deciding to use a car. In contrast to existing research, this study drew more elaborate results by introducing a new research method for the more effective examination of individual- and urban-level characteristics.