An Analysis of the Use of Autonomous Vehicles in the Shared Mobility Market: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

The rapid growth of the sharing economy has propelled shared mobility to the forefront of the public’s attention. Continuous advancements in autonomous driving technology also bring new opportunities and challenges to the shared mobility industry. This study comprehensively analyzes the impact of using land-based autonomous vehicles (AVs) to provide shared mobility services, utilizing SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), PESTLE analysis (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental), and Porter’s Five Forces (the bargaining power of suppliers, the bargaining power of buyers, threats of new entrants, substitutes, and rivalry). The findings reveal that AVs can provide improved shared mobility services by increasing transportation safety, reducing emissions, reducing costs, enhancing traffic efficiency, and increasing customer satisfaction as well as the profitability of shared mobility services. However, challenges such as technological and policy uncertainties, safety concerns, high initial costs, inadequate public communication infrastructure, and the absence of standardized regulations can hinder the widespread adoption of AVs. The benefits are also restricted by the low market penetration rate of AVs. To promote AVs in the shared mobility market, this study also provides implications for AV stakeholders tailored to the evolving shared mobility market dynamics.