I’m curious, I’m open to it, I test it, I trust it! A focus groups study to understand a-priori trust in automated buses

Trust is regarded as one of the main predictors for adopting automated buses (ABs). However, theories about trust (development) in technology generally vary and an in-depths study ABs specifically still outstanding. The present fills this gap by presenting results from focus group interviews to shared prior exposure. objectives are contrast participants’ naïve concepts with theory identify underlying factors influencing a-priori ABs. Results show that N = 21 participants use different strategies familiarise themselves new ABs, e.g., comparisons familiar technologies, fundamental tendencies approach or avoid, additional information seeking, anthropomorphisation. These largely support existing on technology. Differences between interpretations its theoretical assumptions were found debates where more control over limited uncertainty led trust. While suggest be incompatible opposites, see a way enhance We provide starting points further development expansion stress importance explanations emerging technologies acceptance building.