Research on the Mode Choice Intention of the Elderly for Autonomous Vehicles Based on the Extended Ecological Model

Abstract

Due to the elderly’s limited physical ability, their mode choice behavior with particular demand for the traffic system is significantly distinguished compared to young people. The emergence of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) and Shared Autonomous Vehicles (SAVs) will allow the elderly to travel independently and offer more mode choices. However, emerging vehicles will continue to coexist with other traditional modes such as public transport. This paper aims to explore the internal mechanism of the elderly’s choice behavior among public transport, AVs, and SAVs. We integrated the relevant factors by expanding the ecological model and used the Multiple Indicators and Multiple Causes (MIMIC) model to analyze the constructs’ relationship. The results show that the elderly believe that public transport, AVs, and SAVs are useful and convenient travel modes for themselves, affecting intention significantly. In addition, the elderly’s well-being and social influence during travel are also significant constructs for their behavioral intention. The research could provide academic supports for the traffic management departments when making relevant policies and measures for the elderly.