Objective
The aim of the project is to investigate the possibility that informing car drivers of the actual private and social costs of their travel may influence and alter their trip decision-making models, resulting in car trip suppression or mode change and consequently a reduction in energy consumption.
Car travel is well recognised to be less energy efficient that other transport modes, particularly for short journeys. One approach to energy savings therefore would be to encourage individuals to use modes which require less energy and have lower external costs. Generally, a car user's decision-making model as to transport mode selection, even in cases where alternative options are available, does not take account of the full cost of a trip, either average or marginal. The research investigates the possibility that informing a car driver of these actual costs may influence and alter their decision-making model, resulting in trip suppression or mode change.
A car meter is used to inform each driver in the sample of the true costs of each additional trip made. These costs, which include the marginal private and external costs, are displayed to the driver on a real-time basis while travelling. In addition to monitoring changes in driver behaviour with respect to trip making, feedback on the instantaneous rate of fuel consumption is also provided and driving style monitored for any consequent change in, for example, time spent accelerating.
Data on driver behaviour is collected by means of travel diaries, questionnaires and interviews. Preliminary results indicate an apparent increased awareness of the true costs of travel as well as some attitudinal and behavioural changes with regard to driver travel decisions. This project constitutes the pilot-action for a much larger project into driver response to information on full and external costs of travel, the design of which will be included as part of the current research.
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2 Dublin
Ireland