Unlocking the Future of Travel – Understanding the Acceptance of Railway Passenger Services in Germany
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Passenger railway transport plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions from car use, making its increased adoption essential for meeting climate goals. This study examines the factors influencing the adoption and utilisation of rail transport in Germany, utilising the technology acceptance model (TAM) as a theoretical framework. The adapted model confirms the relevance of TAM in service-oriented contexts, identifying perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use as key drivers of acceptance. A notable finding is the gap between intention and actual behaviour. While many participants expressed a willingness to use rail services, this intention often failed to translate into regular use. This highlights a major challenge in promoting sustainable mobility, as positive attitudes alone are insufficient to shift travel behaviour. The study provides valuable insights for rail service providers seeking to enhance usage and improve public perception. However, limitations must be acknowledged. The sample may not fully reflect the broader population, and a potential selection bias, such as a high proportion of car owners, may affect generalisability. Despite these issues, the study contributes to the literature on TAM in consumer services and underscores the need for further research into the factors influencing the gap between intention and action.
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