Perception and Acceptance of Autonomous Vehicles: Influencing Factors and the Relevance of Subjective Knowledge

Autonomous vehicle technology (AV) is rapidly evolving, and numerous studies have already dealt with influencing factors of acceptance of AVs. Subjective knowledge (SK) has been highlighted as a relevant factor in predicting trust and acceptance. However, it has not been integrated at the model level, which is the aim of the present study. In addition, the present study investigated the increase of SK using an explainer video. In an online study, participants (N = 435) watched a four-minute explainer video about AVs. Before and after the video, participants were asked about their SK about AVs and then completed questionnaires on perceived risk, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, trust, intention to use, and personal innovativeness. The results indicate that SK is a crucial factor in improving perception and, indirectly, trust and acceptance of AVs. In addition, the increase in SK depended on the initial SK.