The Future of Public Transportation: Competing with Self-Driving Cars

In a world where major cities exceed one million inhabitants, the question of the future of public transportation in the age of self-driving cars (SDCs) often arises. Despite the fascination with these autonomous vehicles, the reality is quite distant. We are still decades away from a widespread adoption of SDCs, and until then, public transportation will continue to serve a vital role.

Decades Away from Self-Driving Cars

Many predict that self-driving cars are many years away, even calling them a pipe dream. They will only become a reality after they pry our keys from our dying hands, and even then, the experience will be far from thrilling. The excitement for the technological marvel will likely be short-lived, leaving us with the reality of efficiency and reliability.

Public transportation, however, is another matter. Cities with large populations will always require a system that can efficiently transport a significant number of people. Remember those public buses with passengers who can't afford a car? That's the kind of scenario where public transport still reigns supreme.

Efficiency and Safety of Public Transport

Picturing a private auto owner might conjure images of high costs due to increased usage, maintenance, and insurance. There's a trend showing that the number of affordable new cars (under $20k) is decreasing. Therefore, even if SDCs arrive, their primary role will likely be in shared rental agreements, carpools, or occasional use. Public transport remains the most efficient use of space and the safest option compared to single-user private vehicles.

Shared mobility options such as ridesharing services like Uber will certainly compete with public transport, but SDCs are not the final solution. Public transport systems can still carry more people over a limited infrastructure in the same amount of time. Moreover, they often have dedicated lanes, providing a smoother and safer ride.

SDCs and Public Transportation: Complementary or Competitors?

One can argue that SDCs and public transport can coexist. On one hand, self-driving cars could take people to train stations or other modes of mass transit, making the overall journey more convenient and cost-effective. At the destination, another SDC could bring people to their final destination. This service could indeed make high-speed trains and other public transport options more appealing due to the seamless transition and reduced car ownership costs.

However, there is another perspective that suggests SDCs could pose a threat to public transport. The advent of SDCs might reduce the reliance on mass transit as people prefer the convenience and cost-effectiveness of using SDCs directly. For instance, an SDC could take someone from their home to the train station and then another SDC to their final destination, creating a smaller, more direct route.

Autonomous Vehicles and Public Transport: A Dull Future?

The future of autonomous vehicles poses a significant challenge to public transport in terms of engagement and enjoyment. Autonomous vehicles, currently capable only of highway driving, offer limited interactivity. They lack the thrill of controlling a vehicle, the joy of navigating urban environments, or the excitement of spontaneous changes in route. Public transport, too, offers limited personal control, leading to a less engaging and less enjoyable experience.

As infrastructure is built to accommodate dedicated roads for autonomous vehicles, many people will likely resist, preferring to maintain control of their vehicles. This includes individuals who enjoy the experience of driving, such as the author who enjoys their Mazda Miata for its engagement and stability. The loss of these qualities with autonomous vehicles and public transport alike could lead to a less appealing commuting experience.

In conclusion, while SDCs will certainly play a part in the future of transportation, public transport remains a far superior option. The journey towards a fully autonomous and car-centric future may sound terrible, as it could result in a soulless and dull commuting experience for many.