Exploring the influence of job characteristics on the adoption of driver advisory systems for energy-efficient driving: Insights from a longitudinal field study in rail operations

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Driver Advisory Systems (DAS) for eco-efficient driving on train drivers' job characteristics and job satisfaction, and their effects on acceptance and compliance with the system. Driving and questionnaire data from 16 drivers equipped with DAS were collected over a five-month period. Questionnaire data were compared to questionnaire data of a control group (n = 18). Contrary to expectations, DAS did not significantly alter job characteristics or occupational satisfaction. However, drivers with higher task identity and occupational satisfaction demonstrated greater acceptance of and compliance with DAS, highlighting the interplay between work design and technology adoption. Regression analyses indicated that perceived usefulness, task identity, and skill variety were key predictors of compliance. Despite our small sample size, our study provides first indications about the value of considering aspects of work design to understand drivers’ willingness to drive more energy-efficiently with the support of DAS.