Endeavors in Sustainable Public Transportation Services Using Affordable and Simple Autonomous Vehicles with Resident Cooperation for Local Governments with Small Budgets

抄録

This study is endeavors in sustainable public transportation services using affordable and simple autonomous vehicles (AVs),with resident cooperation for local governments with small budgets. A comprehensive risk assessment was conducted on the introduction of cart-type AVs in a rural village. Risks were categorized as “hard” (infrastructure-related) and “soft” (community cooperation-related). To assess hard risks, technical validations were conducted using a test course simulating local road conditions. Soft risks were examined through community workshops aimed at consensus-building and establishing shared rules. Findings emphasize the importance of fostering an environment where AV services are viewed as community-owned and residents actively participate in their implementation and operation. This resident-centered approach provides practical insights for municipalities facing demographic and financial constraints and supports broader dissemination of inclusive and cost-effective AV solutions.