Analysis of travel mode choice behavior considering the indifference threshold

Abstract

An effective way to optimize traffic structures is by changing travel costs, thereby moving travelers from private transportation to public transportation. However, according to the existing studies, the traveler will not transfer from one mode to another unless the change in travel utility is greater than the indifference threshold. Therefore, the "indifference threshold" is one of the most important factors influencing a traveler's choice of behavior. This study defines the "indifference threshold" as the traveler's sensitivity to changes in travel utilities. In the framework of the theory of planned behavior (TPB), a structural equation model (SEM) considering the indifference threshold is established to analyze a traveler's mode choice behavior. The analysis results showed that a travelers' sensitivity to changes in travel utilities has the greatest impact on mode-choice behavior intentions and mode choice behavior. Perceptual behavior control has the strongest influence on travel choice behavior. In addition, in order to further explore the heterogeneity of a traveler's behavior, the travelers were subdivided into four types, by establishing a latent class model (LCM) considering the indifference threshold. Finally, different traffic management suggestions are proposed for different types of travelers.