Passenger Perceptions of Sitting Comfort in Mobility

Conference poster, 2025

Passenger comfort in mobility is essential as it affects the overall travel experience and well-being. Yet, sitting comfortably is a broad concept, encompassing various aspects. This study aimed to deepen the understanding about what sitting comfortably while travelling entails. 

The study analysed 233 free-text responses from a web-questionnaire about passenger comfort in cars. Thematic analysis was applied to explore underlaying reasoning on what ‘sitting comfortably in the seat’ entails. The findings showed that ‘sitting comfortably in the seat’ was perceived as physical relaxation in terms of avoiding stiffness and discomfort in back and buttocks, feeling safe in the travelling context to allow for mental relaxation, and the ability to engage in activities such as window-gazing, reading and sleeping. The comfort perceptions were influenced by individual characteristics such as stature, physical health conditions and aging, and interior features, including the seat contour and seat belt properties. 

In conclusion, the study shows that comfort encompasses not only physical dimensions, but also psychological and functional dimensions of comfort.  The comfort perception is shaped by the relationship between the individual, the artefact and the interaction between them. These findings enhance comprehension of essential comfort aspects in mobility, extending their relevance to transportation sectors beyond cars.