Does Robotaxi Offer a Positive Travel Experience? A Study of the Key Factors That Influence Consumers’ Use of the Robotaxi

Presently, robotaxi is being tested in cities such as Beijing, Changsha, Guangzhou, etc., and it remains a relatively new mode of transportation for consumers. Considering that robotaxi is a new mobility model, its popularity has an immediate impact on the function and efficiency of urban traffic, so further research on consumers’ perceptions is necessary in order to improve their acceptance of robotaxi. In this study, we explored the behavioral intention of current users of robotaxi based on their performance expectancy, effort expectation, and perceived risk. Based on the results, it appears that performance expectations and effort expectations positively influence usage intentions, which indicates that improving travel efficiency and lowering the threshold for robotaxi use will assist consumers in accepting it. In terms of consumer behavior, perceived risk negatively impacts usage intention, meaning that personal safety, service quality, and travel experience are important factors. Performance expectancy and effort expectancy are positively correlated, indicating that improving travel efficiency and lowering thresholds are complementary.