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IPOD Abstract for presentation (Poster or Podium)

Intelligent Transportation Systems

1678118 - Consumer Adoption of Sidewalk Autonomous Delivery Robots for Home Deliveries

Tuesday, June 18, 2024
8:50 AM - 9:10 AM ET
Room: 216
Abstract: Sidewalk autonomous delivery robots (SADRs) are automated robotic vehicles that can complete home deliveries of small parcels. This research combines attitudinal data collection and choice experiments to understand the drivers and barriers to consumer adoption of SADRs as a last-mile delivery alternative. Leveraging the Technology Acceptance Model with additional risk, privacy, and visual attractiveness constructs, a Multiple Indicator Multiple Cause Model was estimated, a structural equation model that integrates discrete choice modeling principles. The hypotheses considered the effects of consumer's perceptions of factors including usefulness, ease of use, potential risks, privacy issues, and visual attractiveness. The effects of operational aspects, including delivery time and cost, were also evaluated. To test the hypotheses, attitudinal and stated preference data were collected from individuals living in urban areas in the United States who had no previous experience with the technology. The results show that consumers strongly perceive SADRs as easy to use. Moreover, the results highlight the visual appeal of the robot as a positive driver for adoption. The main barriers are related to concerns for the physical integrity of the packages transported by the robot. Consumers are unlikely to choose SADRs over traditional delivery services. We present recommendations tailored to service providers that seek to increase adoption, considering aspects of the technology platform design and operational aspects of service provision. While apprehensions around technical difficulties and material loss are genuine barriers to the widespread adoption of delivery robots, strategic steps can be taken to assuage these fears. Building trust and ensuring a smooth user experience is key to mainstreaming this futuristic delivery model. In conclusion, while functional efficiency is paramount, the visual attractiveness of robots is a pivotal factor in driving consumer adoption. It bridges the gap between cold machinery and human acceptance, turning an impersonal device into a welcomed addition to everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees can expect to learn the following from this session:
  • Understand the factors that influence consumer adoption of sidewalk delivery robots for household deliveries
  • Identify recommendations that service providers should consider for sidewalk delivery robot design and operations
  • Describe potential future research avenues to support the implementation of sidewalk delivery robots