Shifting Gears for the Automated Vehicle: Findings from Focus Groups in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area

Travel behavior responses to automated vehicles (AVs) could undermine broader transportation policy objectives. This study presents focus group findings on Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) residents’ interest and expected behavioral responses to AVs. Five key consumer response themes are identified: safety and ethics concerns; lack of trust; diverse AV use intentions; agreement on a role for public sector involvement; and disagreement …