The Impact of Shared Autonomous Vehicles on the Urban Mobility of the Future
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Keywords

Shared Autonomous Vehicles
Urban Mobility
Intelligent Transportation Systems
Traffic Simulation
Urban Planning

How to Cite

1.
Figueredo Maldonado O, Saraiba Núñez LI, Vega De la Cruz LO. The Impact of Shared Autonomous Vehicles on the Urban Mobility of the Future. SAP Transport, Mobility & Society [Internet]. 2026 Jan. 1 [cited 2026 May 2];5:301. Available from: https://tms.southam.pub/index.php/tms/article/view/301

Abstract

Urban mobility is undergoing a profound transformation driven by technological innovation, demographic shifts, and environmental imperatives. Among the most disruptive developments is the emergence of Shared Autonomous Vehicles (SAVs), which promise to redefine transportation efficiency, sustainability, and accessibility. This study aims to assess the potential impact of SAVs on future urban mobility, focusing on key dimensions such as traffic congestion, emissions, operational costs, and equity. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a systematic literature review, case studies of pilot cities (San Francisco, Gothenburg, Shenzhen), traffic microsimulations, and semi-structured interviews with experts in urban planning and autonomous technologies. Analytical tools included PTV Vissim for traffic modeling, multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA), and demand forecasting software. Findings reveal that SAVs can reduce traffic congestion by up to 40% in densely populated areas, lower CO₂ emissions by 25%, and expand transport coverage in underserved zones. However, regulatory, technological, and social challenges remain, potentially hindering short-term implementation. The study concludes that while SAVs hold transformative potential, their success depends on integrated public policies, smart infrastructure, and broad societal acceptance.

 

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Copyright (c) 2026 Orlando Figueredo Maldonado, Leider Inocencio Saraiba Núñez, Leudi Orlando Vega De la Cruz (Author)