Abstract
We explore in which extent the notion of a reconfigurable vehicle, presented as an innovation, is an anticipated need given the current patterns of vehicle occupancy. The main goals of this study are: (i) Identify latent needs towards vehicle purchase choices and use; (ii) Characterize the individual perceptions about car use, in general; (iii) Characterize the individual perceptions about the reconfigurable notion of a vehicle, able to be adapted to daily occupancy requirements. The study is based on data from 4 focus groups. To identify that needs data are analyzed through the QFD VOC. Engineering requirements are translated with HOQ. To explore perceptions data are analyzed using a content analysis methodology with MaxQDA10 software (c).
Within the context of designing vehicles to comply with European regulations on CO2 emissions, the results reveal latent needs in human dimensions of the product. The notion of a reconfigurable vehicle was identified as a latent need for different target markets. Stated barriers for the adoption of this particular vehicle do not fully overlap with what individuals ponder when they consider buying a current fuel-based. Educational background was found to contribute for the receptivity of the disruptive proposal. (c) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.