Qualitative analysis of vehicle needs and perceptions towards the adoption of a reconfigurable vehicle. (March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carvalho, Irene; Costa, Patrícia L.; Simoes, Ricardo; Silva, Arlindo; Silva, Sílvia A.
• Is Part Of: Research in transportation business & management. Volume 18(2016)
• Page Start: 85
• Page End: 104
• Publication Date: 2016-03
• Subjects: Passenger vehicles -- Innovation adoption -- Behavioral change -- Technological change; Transportation -- Research -- Periodicals; Transportation -- Management -- Periodicals; Transportation -- Management; Transportation -- Research; Periodicals; 388.068
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rtbm.2016.03.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-5395

Abstract

Abstract: We explore in which extent the notion of a reconfigurable vehicle, presented as an innovation, is an anticipated need given the current patterns of vehicle occupancy. The main goals of this study are: (i) Identify latent needs towards vehicle purchase choices and use; (ii) Characterize the individual perceptions about car use, in general; (iii) Characterize the individual perceptions about the reconfigurable notion of a vehicle, able to be adapted to daily occupancy requirements. The study is based on data from 4 focus groups. To identify that needs data are analyzed through the QFD VOC. Engineering requirements are translated with HOQ. To explore perceptions data are analyzed using a content analysis methodology with MaxQDA10 software©. Within the context of designing vehicles to comply with European regulations on CO2 emissions, the results reveal latent needs in human dimensions of the product. The notion of a reconfigurable vehicle was identified as a latent need for different target markets. Stated barriers for the adoption of this particular vehicle do not fully overlap with what individuals ponder when they consider buying a current fuel-based. Educational background was found to contribute for the receptivity of the disruptive proposal.