A new report published by the AAA has revealed that the majority of U.S. drivers seek autonomous technologies in their next vehicle, but continue to fear the fully self-driving car.
Despite the notion that autonomous vehicles will be safer, more efficient and more convenient than current vehicles, three-quarters of U.S. drivers report feeling afraid to ride in a self-driving car, and only 10% say they would feel safer sharing the roads with driverless vehicles.
As vehicle manufacturers move forward in the development of autonomous cars, AAA urges the gradual, safe introduction of self-driving vehicle technologies to ensure that American drivers are informed, prepared and comfortable with this shift in mobility.
“A great race towards autonomy is underway and companies are vying to introduce the first driverless cars to our roadways,” said Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of Automotive Engineering and Industry Relations. “However, while U.S. drivers are eager to buy vehicles equipped with autonomous technology, they continue to fear a fully self-driving vehicle.”
The latest survey also found that the majority (59%) of Americans are keen to have autonomous features in their next vehicle. This suggests that American drivers are ready to embrace autonomous technology, but are not yet ready to give up full control.
“U.S. drivers may experience the driver assistance technologies in their cars today and feel they don’t work consistently enough to replace a human driver – and they’re correct,” continued Brannon. “While these technologies will continue to improve over time, it’s important that consumers understand that today’s systems require your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.”
