Smarter cycling, safer cycling? Acceptance of advanced cyclist assistance systems in 19 European countries
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: As cycling grows in popularity as a sustainable transport mode in Europe, cyclist safety has become a priority. Advanced Cyclist Assistance Systems (ACAS), inspired by Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), offer potential safety improvements but remain underexplored. This study examines ACAS acceptance among 5,991 cyclists from 19 European countries, focusing on public perceptions and adoption drivers. Participants evaluated various ACAS types-crash prevention, visibility enhancement, environmental monitoring, and post-crash assistance-based on safety, usability, and reliability. Acceptance varied across countries, with higher rates in areas with strong cycling infrastructure. Safety and reliability were universally valued, though gender differences emerged: women prioritised safety and visibility, while men favoured usability and added features. The findings highlight the importance of infrastructure, reliable technology, and awareness efforts to promote adoption. Policymakers and developers can use these insights to tailor ACAS innovations, ultimately enhancing cycling safety and supporting the broader development of smart, cyclist-focused technologies.
Source: Ergonomics
Authors: Nora Studer, Dorothea Schaffner, Steve O’Hern, Trond Nordfjærn, Francisco Alonso, Predrag Brlek, Mile Cavar, Katarzyna Gdowska, Javier Gene-Morales, Jozef Gnap, Giuseppe Guido, Milad Mehdizadeh, Mette Møller, Dimitrios Nalmpantis, Mihai R. Niță, Ksenia Shubenkova, Sergio Traficante, Zermena Vazne, Katrina Volgemute, Sergio A. Useche
Institutions: FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, University of Leeds, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Universitat de València, University of Zagreb, University of Mostar, AGH University of Krakow, University of Žilina, University of Calabria, Technical University of Denmark, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University of Bucharest, Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Riga Stradiņš University
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4416717743