A comprehensive study of travel mode captivity: a nuanced perspective on car captivity in new Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

The distinction between 'captive' and 'choice' user categories has long been a prevalent framework in transportation literature and planning circles. While 'captive' users rely on a sole mode, 'choice' users intentionally choose a particular mode based on perceived benefits. However, this binary classification is increasingly critiqued for its failure to capture the complexities of non-transit users. This study delves into a nuanced perspective on car dependency, focusing on the degree of attachment to cars, and aims to categorize car-captive individuals beyond traditional definitions. Examining the feasibility and implications of such categorization, this research adopts a tailored approach within the context of New Cairo, Egypt. An online geo-referenced survey was employed to measure car dependency potential clustering. The survey encompassed demographic information, travel behaviours, car dependency motives, and experimental travel mode change scenarios. Participants were deliberately selected from a comparable built environment to mitigate external factors' influence. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, including Chi-Square tests, with IBM SPSS Statistics 22 used for two-step clustering. Iterative efforts aimed to establish a cohesive model, with emphasis on specific variables which exhibited the highest values. In conclusion, this study proposed two other clusters, ‘car reluctant’ and ‘car inclined’ which differ in their level of attachment to car. By exploring potential categorizations beyond the conventional binary, this research contributes to urban planning and transportation design, fostering a more sustainable and user-centric mobility system. Also, it offers insights into the choice dynamics and the rigid concept of "car captivity." Received: 12 November 2023 Accepted: 30 December 2023 Published: 26 February 2024