Examining Commuters’ Intention to Use App-Based Carpooling: Insights from the Technology Acceptance Model

Abstract

App-based carpooling is recognized as a solution for sustainable commuting. However, there is currently no widespread acceptance and adoption of app-based carpooling services among urban commuters. The study aims to predict residents’ intention to use app-based carpooling services for commuting trips based on the extended Technology Acceptance Model, focusing on perceived risk, social influence, and environmental awareness, and further explore whether there are significant gender differences among these influential factors. A questionnaire was created to empirically test the model and a total of 392 valid surveys were collected in Hefei, China. The results confirm that commuter intention was positively affected by perceived usefulness, social influence, and environmental awareness, while it was negatively influenced by perceived risk. Although the effect of perceived ease of use on intention was not significant, it played a role in enhancing commuters’ perceived usefulness of the service. Moreover, gender differences exist regarding the strength of the relationship between environmental awareness and commuter intention. These findings provide practical insights for app-based carpooling providers and transportation departments aiming to promote their services and foster sustainable commuting practices.