Consumer acceptance of self-driving cars in the United States will increase over time, and preference for riding in self-driving cars is set to double within the next 10 years, according to a report from the Capgemini Research Institute.
About 36% of U.S. consumers surveyed had positive emotions about self-driving cars, seeing benefits in terms of fuel efficiency (73%), reduced emissions (71%) and time savings (50%). More than half of consumers (56%) said they would be willing to pay as much as 20% more for an autonomous vehicle over a standard one, according to the report.
Chinese consumers and Millennials were particularly positive toward autonomous cars, Capgemini reported.
However, despite the surge in positive consumer sentiment, excitement and anticipation, barriers to adoption remain. Respondents said that purchase or adoption of a driverless vehicle would be dependent on vehicle security (73%) and system security (72%).
The findings point to a changing perception of mobility, with consumers believing autonomous cars will take on a larger role in their daily lives, according to Capgemini.
49% of all global respondents to the study would be comfortable with self-driving cars running an errand on their behalf. 54% would trust an autonomous vehicle to drop off or pick up non-driving friends and family members. 50% expect self-driving cars to help them save time to pursue other activities, such as socializing, entertainment, working or simply enjoying the journey.
The report was based on 5,538 consumer surveys across six countries in Europe, North America and Asia in December 2018.