This study aims to investigate the influence of robotaxi service experiences on perceived safety in autonomous driving systems. Robotaxis, as a key application of autonomous driving technology, hold significant potential to revolutionize urban mobility and transportation systems by enhancing convenience, reducing traffic congestion, and mitigating environmental impacts. The analysis is based on a pilot robotaxi service conducted in Gangneung, South Korea, where Level 4 autonomous vehicles operated along a 24-kilometer fixed route connecting major tourist destinations. Changes in perceived safety before and after the service experience were evaluated using a Repeated Measures ANOVA, which indicated a statistically significant improvement in perceived safety. This underscores the pivotal role of real-world experience in enhancing user trust and acceptance of autonomous vehicle technologies. The survey further identified potential benefits, including reductions in air pollution and improvements in public transportation accessibility and mobility efficiency. The findings suggest that user- centric pilot programs and targeted interventions are essential for fostering trust and overcoming social acceptance barriers. This study provides critical insights for advancing the deployment of autonomous driving systems and their integration into urban mobility infrastructures, emphasizing the importance of addressing user trust and perceived safety.
