# Public Perception of the Introduction of Autonomous Vehicles
## 4 Discussion
### Qualitative Data Analysis  
The dataset collected by our KSA survey is stored in RMIT University Qualtrics memory. As shown in Table 1, there are two open-ended questions. They were used for qualitative data collection. With question 14, we were enquiring about the expected benefits of switching to self-driving technology. Since we encouraged participants to present to us a minimum of two benefits, the total number of expected benefits is high, with a lot of overlap. Accordingly, we have identified the most frequent recurring responses to question 14; these are presented here:  
* Safety: many respondents highlighted the potential for increased safety on the roads. They expect fewer accidents and a reduction in traffic violations, which they attributed to the advanced safety features and compliance with traffic rules that are inherent to AVs. * Environmental benefits: another commonly mentioned benefit is the reduction in CO\({}_{2}\) emissions and environmental preservation. Respondents anticipate a positive impact on air quality and reduced pollution. * Time efficiency: several respondents expressed expectations of time savings and increased efficiency in transportation. They believe AVs will allow multitasking during travel, performing job-related activities, and so reducing time wastage. * Reduced congestion: respondents also associate AVs with reduced traffic congestion and more orderly road use, leading to improved traffic throughput and safety. * Comfort and convenience: AVs are seen to offer comfort and convenience, especially for individuals with disabilities or those with limited driving skills. Respondents expect an easier and more relaxed travelling experience. * Economic savings: some respondents highlighted potential cost savings, including reduced accident-related expenses and lower fuel consumption. * Increased productivity: a few respondents mentioned the potential to increase productivity during travel, such as working or undertaking other business activities. * Human error reduction: AVs are expected to minimize accidents resulting from human errors, such as driver fatigue or recklessness. * Energy efficiency: respondents also foresee reduced energy consumption and cost savings due to the introduction of new technology. * Traffic system improvement: some respondents believe that AVs will help enhance the overall traffic system and infrastructure. In summary, the public's perspective on the benefits of transitioning to AVs emphasizes safety, environmental benefits, time efficiency, reduced congestion, comfort and convenience, economic savings, increased productivity, human error reduction, energy efficiency, and traffic system improvement. These anticipated advantages reflect widespread optimism regarding the potential positive impacts of AVs' introduction. The next open-ended question was question 16. Here, we were enquiring about the expected risks of the transition to AV technology. Again, we received many responses that were overlapping. Following that, we have identified the most frequently recurring answers among all responses to this question. Here is the list of issues mentioned:* System malfunctions: the most-mentioned risk is the potential for system malfunctions in AVs, with respondents expressing concerns about automatic control system failures, technical glitches, and the consequences of these malfunctions for road safety. * Human complacency: respondents highlighted concerns about drivers becoming too reliant on AV technology, leading to a lack of activity and concentration in daily life. There are fears that over-reliance on AVs may result in drivers not paying attention to the road, which could be disastrous in the event of a system malfunction. * Increased vehicle numbers: some respondents express concerns about the proliferation of AVs leading to increased congestion on the roads and higher energy prices. * Hacking and cybersecurity: the possibility of cyberattacks on AVs is a recurring concern.