OBJECTIVE

The objective of this project is to develop topical white papers on issues of interest to the TRB Forum on Preparing for Automated Vehicles and Shared Mobility that (1) describe the issue and possible implications for public policy, (2) summarize completed and ongoing research and deployment efforts (domestic and international), (3) provide links to key information resources, (4) identify remaining knowledge gaps, and (5) present research problem statements that are suitable for large research programs. As appropriate, these problem statements should identify innovative approaches to carrying out the research and opportunities for partnering with the private sector as well as other countries. Each paper is expected to be roughly 15-20 pages in length.

 
STATUS

The white papers are available on the TRB Forum website and at the links below.

Crosswalk Analysis of Research Topics in Automated Vehicles and Shared Mobility

This paper summarizes the findings and additional research in the papers below within five themes (safety; environmental and socio-economic impacts; data and data governance; equity, accessibility, and inclusion; and AV and shared mobility services). It provides a snapshot of the synergies across the nine research topic areas.

Impacts and Opportunities around Land Use and Automated Vehicles and Shared Mobility

This paper examines the role that land use plays in AVs supporting a transportation future with more smart mobility innovations, including pricing of right-of-way and conversations around affordable housing.

Implications for Planning and Modeling

Increasingly, AV tests and new equipment are being used on U.S. public roadways. Recognizing this, state and local departments of transportation (DOTs) are interested in understanding what changes must (or should) be made to planning practice, including Long Range Transportation Plan updates, specific modal plans, and other planning documentation.

Impacts of Automated Vehicles and Shared Mobility on Transit and Partnership Opportunities

The shared mobility landscape is changing, and AVs have a strong potential be a motivator in solving existing transportation issues like first/last mile connections (including rural), gaps in service, and provision of better solutions for all individuals.

Potential for Impacts of Highly Automated Vehicles and Shared Mobility on Movement of Goods and People

Automated freight across use cases and types of vehicles appears to be the most active area for Highly Automated Vehicle (HAV) deployment over the last twelve months. New vehicles are being tested and pilots are being implemented on public roadways in the United States.

Prioritizing Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion around the Deployment of Automated Vehicles

While HAVs and smart mobility strategies offer opportunities to increase accessibility and equity, there is also the potential to increase inequities depending on how this technology is rolled out. Issues such as physical accessibility and the digital divide pose challenges to meeting the needs of all users.

Maximizing Positive Social Impacts of Automated Vehicles and Shared Mobility

AVs and shared mobility strategies will have a profound impact on society if the technology can be scaled. These impacts are wide-reaching, ranging from environmental effects to employment and issues surrounding quality of life.

Infrastructure Enablers for Automated Vehicles and Shared Mobility

AVs, including connected AVs, are increasingly being used on U.S. public roadways for both passenger and goods movement. State and local departments of transportation (DOTs) are interested in understanding what elements of highway infrastructure to prioritize, while balancing budget constraints and limited personnel resources with the desire to facilitate AV use and adoption.

Safety Scenarios and Engagement during Transition to Highly Automated Vehicles

The purpose of this paper is to assess new approaches to safety needed to support the ongoing deployment of automated and connected vehicles in expected use cases. This paper also considers time horizons with research on transition period, including short, medium, and long-term.

Models for Data Sharing and Governance for Automated Vehicles and Shared Mobility

The purpose of this paper is to identify policy issues around data sharing, including privacy, security, data governance, data management, open records requests, and user consent within the context of AVs and Shared Mobility.