ABSTRACT
This chapter points out the importance of defining acceptance and categorises definitions that have been used according to drivers 'essence'. Distinctions between different types of acceptance as well as between acceptance and acceptability are also described. Acceptance has often been pointed out as a key factor for successful introduction and intended use of new technology in the vehicle context and elsewhere. Katteler defined different types of acceptance of driver assistance systems depending on the driver's awareness of the problem the assistance system is aimed at tackling. The definition of acceptance is the foundation upon which both assessment structure and acceptance models rest. It is also important to remember that to achieve acceptance and use of new technologies/systems, the personal importance to the users has to be valued more highly than the degree of innovation. Sometimes the term acceptability is used when a driver has no practical experience of the system, for example, in the development phase.
