The well-being of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) users under uncertain situations.

Abstract

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) have made significant progress towards large-scale deployment, offering numerous advantages to society. These benefits include enhanced comfort, safety, efficient utilization of resources (such as energy and land), and environmental protection. Moreover, the potential positive impact of AVs on people's health, such as reducing stress during traffic, is often emphasised. Research suggests that reducing driver responsibilities and allowing leisure activities like reading or entertainment can contribute to overall well-being. However, these assumptions are primarily based on theoretical grounds. This paper aims to investigate the correlation between the level of automation in AVs and public well-being responses, particularly in uncertain and challenging driving scenarios. Through four comprehensive studies, we discovered a significant decrease in well-being responses as the level of automation increases in vehicles. Nonetheless, this pattern is subject to sensitivity based on the level of uncertainty present in the driving scenarios. Consequently, when individuals face higher uncertainty, they tend to experience greater calmness and relaxation at higher levels of automation compared to lower levels. These findings offer valuable insights into comprehending the psychological barriers that influence public perception of AVs.