Modeling Behavioral Intentions Toward Autonomous Vehicles: Expanding the Technology Acceptance Model

Abstract

This study examines the factors influencing individuals’ intention to use autonomous vehicles. As autonomous vehicle technology continues to develop rapidly, understanding the determinants of user acceptance has become increasingly important. This research adopts a quantitative approach and integrates the technology acceptance model (TAM) with additional variables to develop a comprehensive framework explaining behavioral intention toward autonomous vehicles. Data were collected from 397 Malaysian respondents using purposive sampling based on three criteria, including Malaysian citizenship, possession of a valid driving license, and no prior experience with autonomous vehicles. The data were analyzed using SmartPLS. The results indicate that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude, environmental concern, perceived risk, and personal innovativeness significantly influenced individuals’ intention to use autonomous vehicles. In contrast, perceived benefit, perceived safety, and compatibility were found to have no significant effect on behavioral intention. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders in developing public awareness initiatives, safety guidelines, and regulatory frameworks to support the adoption of autonomous vehicle technology.