Work

How do we want to interact with highly and fully automated vehicles? An empirical study on stakeholders, their values, and value tensions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: • AV-VRU interactions are examined using a multi-perspective framework. • Value sensitive design was applied to identify stakeholders, values, and tensions. • 15 stakeholders, 22 values, and 80 tensions highlight the multi-perspective nature. • The value analysis enabled the creation of a comprehensive value network. • Value networks visualize relationships between stakeholders and their values. Highly and fully automated vehicles (AV) have the potential to improve road safety, particularly for vulnerable road users (VRU). To design satisfactory interactions between AV and VRU, the values of VRU should be considered. However, these interactions are not limited to two parties. Instead, AV–VRU interactions should be understood as dynamic situations involving multiple stakeholders, each having their own values that may be affected by interactions between AV and VRU. To address this multi-perspective view, the present study applies value-sensitive design principles to identify relevant stakeholders, values, and value tensions in AV–VRU interactions. Two expert focus groups conducted a value analysis, resulting in the identification of 15 direct and indirect stakeholders, 22 values of varying relevance, and 80 value tensions. The findings highlight the interconnectedness and complexity of AV–VRU interactions, emphasizing the need to account for values in the design of automated vehicles. In addition, the study demonstrates the application of value analysis to develop a value network. This network serves as a tool to visualize interrelations, support design decisions, and reveal research gaps. It offers guidance for future studies on AV–VRU interactions.

Source: Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives

DOI: 10.1016/j.trip.2025.101706

Authors: Josephine Halama, Beatrice Schmieder, Stefan Brandenburg

Institution: Chemnitz University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Human-Automation Interaction and Safety

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,400