CAA reveals research finding consumers worried about impact of new vehicle technologies

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15.06.19

Connected and autonomous vehicles and how they impact the Canadian consumer has been a key pillar for the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) for at least three years now. A new study released by CAA shows that most Canadians are wary when it comes to autonomous vehicles. 

Most Canadians are concerned about new vehicle technologies that are slowly changing the way we drive, according to CAA research that points to a need for more consumer-friendly information.

“New vehicles today contain some form of connected or automated vehicle technology, whether that’s Bluetooth connectivity, lane assist or another feature,” said Jeff Walker, chief strategy officer at CAA National. “These are the building blocks that will lead to fully autonomous vehicles one day, yet the vast majority of Canadians are not familiar with the technology – and that leads naturally to them having concerns.”

According to the CAA survey, the drivers’ main worries with autonomous technology in vehicles is the potential risk of hacking, as well as issues surrounding accountability in the case of an accident and access to driver data by third parties.

CAA has been tracking Canadians’ perception on autonomous vehicle for several years. Earlier research also revealed that 83 percent of drivers only have a vague knowledge of autonomous vehicles.

To remedy this and keep Canadians informed, CAA launched a new tool, an online portal where Canadians can go to learn about the future of mobility and its impacts on drivers. The tool includes an explanation of the levels of autonomous vehicles, timelines for adoption and the risks of the technology. 

In the long run, AVs should be a boon for road safety and mobility. 

“The transition to autonomous vehicles will likely happen gradually,” Walker said. “In the long run, AVs will save lives since collisions will be much fewer and far between, and they will allow seniors or others with limited mobility the opportunity to regain independence.” 

For more information on autonomous vehicles or to access the online tool, visit caa.ca/avs.