Pedestrians’ Acceptance of Personal Mobility Devices on the Shared Path: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach

In order to promote active mobility, a pleasant and safe walking experience should be provided. However, the increasing use of personal mobility devices (PMDs) on footpaths has created new challenges for urban designers in Singapore. In this study, we conducted an online questionnaire to understand pedestrians' attitudes towards the use of PMDs on a shared path. The main hypothesis was that, in accordance with the technology acceptance model (TAM), pedestrians who have experienced PMDs will tend to be accommodating of them. Based on 303 valid responses, this study analysed pedestrians' levels of acceptance of PMDs. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to evaluate five constructs: the intention to use a PMD, ease of use, usefulness, perceived risk from PMD riders, and the environment. The results indicate that prior PMD riding experience does not affect the subject's degree of acceptance of PMDs on a shared path. A high correlation was found between the environment and intention to use, as well as the perceived risk from PMD riders and the speed of the PMD. The findings of this study will provide insights for planners in making walking on a shared path a more pleasant experience for pedestrians while introducing PMDs as a new mobility service.