To Share or Not to Share—Expected Transportation Mode Changes Given Different Types of Fully Automated Vehicles

Abstract

When it comes to climate change, automated vehicles (AV) are often presented as a key factor to reducing emissions related with the transport sector. While studies promise emissions savings of up to 80%, it is often overlooked how AVs will be introduced and which transportation mode changes will arise from their implementation. Therefore, this online survey examined usage intentions regarding private and shared AV types, and underlying attitudes and mobility needs of 136 current users of different main modes of transport. Two main results counteract the general assumption of ecological sustainability benefits of AVs: First, current car drivers prefer private over shared AV types, even though notable sustainability gains can only be expected from shared AVs. Second, current users of more sustainable modes of transport (walking, bike, public transport) would replace theses modes by AVs for substantial shares of their trips, which represents a behavioural rebound effect, since AVs cannot be more sustainable than walking or biking. Group-specific mobility needs and knowledge gaps regarding the sustainability of different AV types are identified as reasons for these results and as starting points for deriving necessary measures accompanying the introduction of AVs into society through motivating ecologically sustainable transportation mode changes.

The Integration of Shared Autonomous Vehicles in Public Transportation Services: A Systematic Review

“…Becker et al (2019) [10] found that SAV systems might bring substantial benefits in car-oriented cities, while in public transport-oriented cities they might induce a shift from mass transit. Heubeck et al (2023) [11] found that higher attitudes for shared AV forms can be observed in public transport users, confirming such a rebound effect from SAV deployment. Nevertheless, the interview study by Nordhoff et al (2019) [12] suggests a positive disposition among respondents toward the use of autonomous shuttles as feeders to public transport systems.…”

Advancing urban mobility in the State of Qatar—Establishing a framework for autonomous vehicles in Doha

“…Drawing from the existing operational and trials of AVs in various cities worldwide, the typology of AVs acknowledges contextual factors and their distinct transportation needs, including passenger transportation, freight and cargo services, as well as precinct and facility-related functions (Jones et al, 2023). AVs have two future ownership models: private ownership and sharing models, such as ride-sharing services (Carrese et al, 2023;Heubeck et al, 2023). While private ownership of AVs offers increased convenience and more productive and relaxing experiences, there is a growing apprehension about the potential impact of AVs on mass transportation (Figure 2).…”

“…AVs and shared mobility could significantly transform transportation systems and urban forms based on the benefit of public transportation and advanced technological solutions (Carrese et al, 2023). Shared AVs (SAVs), also known as autonomous taxis, can reduce car ownership and vehicle miles/kilometres travelled (VMT/VKT) by replacing private mobility with mobility-on-demand (MOD) and point-to-point services (Heubeck et al, 2023). SAV fleets can potentially mitigate traffic congestion and alleviate the demand for parking substantially, creating opportunities for other forms of mobility such as public transit, cycling, and pedestrian activities (NACTO, 2019).…”