Demystifying complexities in the adoption of hydraulic-powered personal rapid transit systems: a multi-stakeholder perspective

The emergence of Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) systems has provided a highly appealing solution to the challenges linked to urban mobility, including pollution, congestion, and access. Nevertheless, the global implementation of PRT systems is extremely limited, indicating a significant research void that must be elucidated by examining numerous factors and obstacles that influence the adopting such systems in urban environments. This study fills this void by employing a comprehensive multi-stakeholder approach—including a literature review and quantitative analysis to comprehend the complexities associated with PRT adoption. According to the findings, critical technological, environmental, economic, societal, and regulatory obstacles impede the implementation of PRT systems. Given the technological obstacles, integration with municipal infrastructure appeared to be the most critical factor, as indicated by the path coefficient value of 0.454, which significantly impacts adoption decisions. Additional important factors that fall within the purview of the path coefficient are economic and environmental considerations, which have respective path coefficients of 0.208 and 0.343. This is associated with a significant and tangible influence on the feasibility and reception of PRT systems. Stakeholders deemed the development of multifaceted planning and adaptive policy frameworks to emphasize the significance of regulatory support and public acceptability with path coefficients of 0.307 and 0.276, respectively. The study’s practical implications encompass urban planners, policymakers, and investors, particularly regarding utilizing collaborative strategies to surmount obstacles to adoption.