Shifting perspectives on autonomous vehicles: using laser scanning technology to engage the public via the analysis of journeys seen ‘through the eyes’ of autonomous vehicles

It is likely that Autonomous Vehicles will have significant social, cultural, spatial and environmental implications and that the interaction between humans, automated vehicles and physical environment will provide an array of challenges. This paper aims to explore the use of innovative visualisation approaches, to foster discussion on possible scenarios involving AVs. It is argued that such an approach might be used to help conceptualise human experiences with the potential to enhance understanding of the complex human-machine associations. Presenting journeys from different perspectives and reconceptualising the context through the eyes of AVs emphasized the nuances of experience between the machines, urban space and human bodies. Unexpected user-technology interactions will emerge as humans are not always passive followers and can be apprehensive when it comes to accepting such a novel technology as self-driving vehicles.  The focus applied in the methodology and data capture was on inclusivity of data, showing not only movement but also noise and human experience of a space. The integration of AVs on public roads will rely on technical innovation to ensure that vehicles can operate safely yet, the study of the perceptual and ethical effects of technology and potential influences on society via engaging the public will help to manage expectations and create platforms for mutual learning.