Exploring the acceptance of connected and automated vehicles: Focus group discussions with experts and non-experts in transport

•We explored the views of 72 experts and non-experts in transport, living in 23 countries.•Focus groups were used to explore participants’ expectations and concerns.•Results show that benefits like increased safety and accessibility and improved travel experience for both driver and passengers could support Connected and Automated Vehicles’ deployment.•A variety of concerns were raised during the discussions, related to privacy, responsibility in case of an accident and increase in maintenance and repair costs.