Examining Vehicle Users’ Willingness to Carpool: Evidence from Sri Lanka, a Lower- and Middle-Income Country

Carpooling, as a shared mobility option, offers a means to reduce single-occupancy vehicle use and promote sustainable travel behaviour. While many studies have explored carpooling in developed countries, there is a growing need to consider context-specific factors influencing the participation of vehicle users in lower- and middle-income countries (LMIC). This study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining interviews and surveys, to examine carpooling behaviour in Sri Lanka. The interview data were analysed thematically, while the survey data were examined using descriptive analysis and hypothesis testing to identify the key factors influencing the willingness to carpool. This study explores the willingness of private vehicle owners in Sri Lanka, particularly work commuters, to share empty vehicle spaces as potential carpooling facility suppliers. While carpooling remains unfamiliar to many, the participants expressed optimism regarding its potential to reduce traffic congestion. The ranking results indicated that the participants prioritised vehicle efficiency, comfort, cost savings, and personal security. Age was a stronger determinant of willingness than gender or education, with 25–35-year-olds most receptive, mainly for commuting to work, and valuing features like assured matches and safety protocols. These findings support the development of targeted policies and digital solutions that align with user needs and mobility patterns in emerging urban contexts.