Despite increasing awareness of autonomous vehicle technology, most U.S. drivers remain hesitant to embrace self-driving cars, according to a new survey by AAA. The findings show that while trust in autonomous vehicles has increased marginally -- from 9% in 2023 to 13% in 2024 -- 60% of drivers still report being afraid to ride in one.
“Most drivers want automakers to focus on advanced safety technology,” said Greg Brannon, director of automotive engineering at AAA. “Though opinions on fully self-driving cars vary widely, it’s evident that today’s drivers value features that enhance their safety.”
The survey also shows a declining interest in self-driving vehicle development, with only 13% of respondents considering it a priority -- down from 18% in 2022. Instead, drivers overwhelmingly favor improvements to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Seventy-eight percent of respondents cited safety system advancements as a top priority, a consistent trend in recent years.
Robotaxis, autonomous vehicles used for ridesharing, are already in operation in several major U.S. cities. While 74% of drivers are aware of these services, 53% said they would not choose to ride in one. Generational differences were apparent, as Millennials and Generation X drivers expressed more willingness to use Robotaxis compared to Baby Boomers, though hesitancy remains high across all age groups.
Interest in ADAS features remains strong, with 64% of drivers wanting Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) in their next vehicle, 62% interested in Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking, and 59% favoring Lane Keeping Assistance. AAA emphasized the performance and naming of these systems must clearly communicate their intended benefits to maintain consumer trust.
“We are committed to collaborating with industry leaders and automakers to prioritize the safety and performance of advanced vehicle technology,” Brannon said. “AAA’s research insights are helping to shape safety standards and educate drivers to safely and confidently use these technologies.”
AAA has conducted extensive testing to evaluate the reliability of ADAS features. A study released in October 2024 found that recent improvements in AEB technology significantly enhanced its performance, particularly at speeds up to 35 mph. The organization stresses that while safety advancements are crucial, consumer education and transparency regarding technology limitations are essential in building trust in the future of vehicle automation.
