Exploring mode preferences in the era of autonomy and shared mobility

Change is often met with resistance, and shifting from private car-based travel to alternative mobility options is no exception, as it requires individuals to reorganize the logistics of their everyday lives to accommodate new mobility practices. Shared autonomous vehicles (SAVs) are expected to reshape transportation systems by making them safer, more efficient, and less harmful to the environment; however, their adoption in car-dependent areas is critically dependent upon public acceptance. The literature evaluates various aspects of SAV adoption but does not provide a comprehensive evaluation of modal preferences across automation and ownership levels. This study aimed to fill that knowledge gap through the development of a survey questionnaire that was designed to provide insight into the transportation modal preferences of residents in a car-centric city in Texas. The results revealed a majority preference for private conventional vehicles, followed by private ride-hailing services. To examine the modal preferences, the study developed a rank-ordered model and found that decision criteria factors, demographics, and mobility behavior shape interest in utilizing certain transportation modes. The findings highlight the significance of public receptivity towards SAVs and may benefit policymakers by illuminating perceptions towards various modes of transportation and providing actionable recommendations for future mobility systems.