04/21/2025

Survey: Enhancing vehicle safety systems override self-driving development

Source: aftermarket MATTERS

According to AAA’s latest survey on autonomous vehicles, 13% of U.S. drivers would trust riding in self-driving vehicles — an increase from last year, when this number was 9%. Despite this increase, six in 10 U.S. drivers still report being afraid to ride in a self-driving vehicle.

For drivers, enhancing vehicle safety systems remains a priority over the development of self-driving, with interest among drivers decreasing from 18% in 2022 to 13% this year.

Improving safety systems is important for U.S. drivers — 78% prioritize advancements in safety systems as a top vehicle technology initiative​—which has been steady for the past several years.

In contrast, the excitement surrounding new vehicle styles is a low priority, with only 24% of drivers viewing it as important. Enthusiasm is also low toward the development of self-driving vehicles—only 13% of drivers consider this a priority.

Collectively, interest in advanced driver assistance features (ADAS) continues to remain high. The survey found that 64% of U.S. drivers would “definitely” or “probably” want Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) on their next vehicle, 62% would want Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking, and 59% Lane Keeping Assistance.

AAA states that to maintain a growing interest in these features, the performance and naming of these systems must adequately reflect the intended benefits and capabilities of the systems.

Robotaxis

As of 2025, Robotaxis, self-driving vehicles used like a taxi or ride-share, operate in several major cities. AAA’s survey found that 74% of drivers were aware of Robotaxis, yet 53% said they would not choose to ride in one.

Different demographics have varying opinions. Millennial and Generation X drivers are more likely to say they would ride in one than Baby Boomer drivers, but even among younger drivers, most say they wouldn’t ride in a Robotaxi.