An Analysis of Mobility Styles and Carsharing Adoption Intentions in Major Urban Areas of Japan: Evidence from Tokyo, Osaka, and Kanagawa

Abstract

This study links mobility styles with carsharing intentions and next-generation vehicle preferences in urban Japan. An online survey of licensed drivers in Tokyo Metropolis, Kanagawa Prefecture, and Osaka Prefecture captured mode use frequencies and stated preferences by travel purpose. Cluster analysis identified three mobility styles: private-car users, public-transport users, and a diversified, high-carsharing group. The diversified profile combined high carsharing participation with high private-car ownership, indicating that carsharing can complement rather than replace existing car access. Random Forest results indicate that age, car usage frequency, and income best distinguish carsharing users from non-users. Carsharing preferences varied substantially by stated-use context. For daily and business trips, most respondents prefer carsharing stations within 400 m and short distances; for tourism and hometown visiting, they accept longer access to carsharing stations and longer trips. Compact and Kei cars (Japanese light vehicles) in Japan dominate daily use, while minivans and SUVs gain importance for leisure. Gasoline and hybrid vehicles are most preferred, with limited willingness to pay extra for electric vehicles. The findings support segment- and purpose-specific carsharing station placement, fleet composition, and gradual electrification strategies in mature, transit-rich metropolitan areas.