The Smart Vision EQ fortwo concept, a fully autonomous, pure electric vehicle unveiled by Benz in 2017. (Image courtesy of Mercedes Benz)
SEOUL, Jan. 8 (Korea Bizwire) –A recent survey has revealed that nearly half of South Koreans are open to purchasing autonomous vehicles in the future, with younger generations showing less resistance to self-driving technology.
The survey, conducted by the Korea Automobile and Mobility Association (KAMA) using the Embrain platform, involved 3,000 individuals aged 14 to 79 nationwide.
According to the results, 45.1% expressed an interest in purchasing an autonomous car, while 26.2% were against it, and 28.7% remained neutral.
Interest in purchasing autonomous vehicles varied by age group, with teenagers showing the highest interest at 53.2%.
This was followed by people in their 20s (47.5%), 50s (47.2%), 40s (45.6%), 30s (44%), and 60s (42.3%). The interest dropped significantly to 34.4% among individuals in their 70s.
Regarding the willingness to use autonomous public transportation, 47.5% responded positively. Here too, teenagers showed the highest interest at 66.4%, while those in their 70s showed the least at 39.1%.
Only 25.9% of respondents reported having experience with currently commercialized ‘Level 2′ autonomous driving technology, which involves partial driving automation but requires the driver to remain alert.
When asked about the first image or word that comes to mind when thinking of autonomous vehicles, 23% mentioned ‘comfort and convenience.’
The next most common association (13%) was with Tesla, CEO Elon Musk, and Tesla’s Autopilot system, recognized for leading the way in autonomous driving technology.
The research institute noted a lack of public understanding and awareness beyond ‘Level 3′ autonomous driving technology, where the driver must intervene upon system request.
They emphasized the need for South Korea to regularly conduct safety and acceptance surveys for autonomous vehicles, similar to the United States, and continually explore ways to enhance public acceptance.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
