Even in a scenario where the number of vehicles on the road remains the same, the decreased distances between C/AVs will allow for greater density and higher speeds that will help alleviate congestion. Advances in communication technologies from vehicle to vehicle - and vehicle to infrastructure systems - will also help to regulate lights at busy intersections and optimize traffic flow.
=> Find out more: Self-Driving in the City of Tomorrow
Conversely, some experts suggest that people would be more inclined to spend more time in transit if they are being chauffeured by their car. They could also opt to be dropped off at their destination and to send their vehicle off to other locations, to be used by other people, therefore adding unmanned vehicles to the glut on our roads. In that scenario, the result would be more congestion, at worst, or no change, at best.
While the jury is still out on what impact self-driving cars will have on congestion and road usage, it is undisputed that driverless vehicles are the future. The adoption of automated technology is part of a revolution in transportation, where autonomous vehicles will become one of several mobility assets available to consumers.
=> Also read: The Age of Mobility
The focus will be on the overall mobility capacity of our society, while simultaneously providing effective solutions to many existing transportation problems. Driverless vehicles are an ideal fit for an increasingly mobile world, but the effectiveness of their adoption will depend on direct action from both the public and private sectors.
Take a moment to watch the following video, produced by Drive Sweden.
