This paper deals with traditional and participatory theoretical models of technology assessment by different stakeholders. Conclusions on the policy implications, especially in autonomous mobility, of such a comparison will be drawn while also analyzing the acceptance survey results based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and discussing some of its limitations. Further on participatory models of technology assessment especially will be discussed. The process of entering in dialogue and triggering engagement from different stakeholders and lay persons has the potential to open new avenues of understanding as well as demonstrating to researchers and policy makers that non-experts may have important reflections on technological agendas. Engagement may familiarize researchers and policy makers with new types of arguments and pave the way for a more inclusive, effective and socially embedded process of new technology embracement.