自动驾驶出行服务的公众关切与研究展望-兼评“萝卜快跑”世界最大规模无人驾驶商业化运营

Online public sentiment through social media has emerged as a data-driven research method. This study explores an approach to promoting scientific research through public-opinion analysis. Baidu’s“Apollo Go”was launched as the world’s largest fully driverless commercial operation in Wuhan, China, which sparked intense social-media discussion after a minor traffic incident on July 7th. First, this paper outlines the commercialization process of the“Apollo Go”platform in Wuhan. Subsequently, using the Baidu Index, we analyze the evolution of public attention toward“Apollo Go autonomous driving”and“robotaxis.”Subsequently, we conducted a word-cloud analysis and topic modelling on 1 809 popular comments from Sina Weibo and TikTok, from which we identified four key themes of public concern: technological advancement, service experience, socioeconomic impact, and market competition. Finally, based on these concerns, we propose research directions for improving the societal compatibility of autonomous driving, the structure of the ride-hailing market and government regulations, employment transformation and social security systems, legal frameworks, and local legislation. The findings will help academics understand Chinese public attitudes toward autonomous ride-hailing services and provide guidance for shaping research agendas corresponding to societal demands, promoting technological innovation, and facilitate proactive risk management. Consequently, the development of a conducive social environment for new productivity drivers will be supported, thereby enhancing China’s competitive position in the global autonomous mobility service sector.