Rescuing Transport from Inequities: How Can Automated and Connected Transport Contribute to a More Inclusive Transport System?

Abstract

The massive investment in, and development of, automated and connected transport (ACT) technology development has triggered much debate about this breakthrough technology’s potential positive and negative impacts. Multiple studies have explored the potential direct implications for users in terms of road safety, ‘productive’ travel time, mobility of the elderly and physically less mobile persons, as well as indirect impacts such as reduced emissions and freed road space. Through a critical review of the literature on ACT deployment types and discussions with an expert working group on the wider impacts of ACT implementation, this chapter examines four distinct deployment types of ACT technology and their opportunities and threats in transitioning toward inclusive transport systems. Of the four types, we posit that ACT-based public transport has the greatest potential to contribute to a more inclusive mobility future. Examining the case of Singapore using policy documents, academic literature and interviews with representatives of public and private sectors and academia, the chapter draws policy recommendations for governance toward more inclusive ACT innovation and deployment.

Citation

Beyazit, E., Soh, E. and Martens, K. (2024), "Rescuing Transport from Inequities: How Can Automated and Connected Transport Contribute to a More Inclusive Transport System?", Thomopoulos, N., Attard, M. and Shiftan, Y. (Ed.) Sustainable Automated and Connected Transport (Transport and Sustainability, Vol. 19), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 139-159. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2044-994120240000019008