Despite the emissions problems all-electric robotaxis they might solve, new research suggests electrified self-driving fleets could, at least in some cases, exacerbate pollution problems.
An analysis found ride-hailing services cause 69 percent more pollution than the trips they replace, largely because of “deadheading” miles that accumulate when vehicles drive around without passengers.
“Automated vehicles can be part of a clean, equitable transportation system as long as they are run on zero-emission electricity, lead to widespread pooling of trips and are deployed in coordination with frequent, reliable and accessible mass transit,” Elizabeth Irvin, a senior transportation analyst with the Union of Concerned Scientists, wrote in support of California Senate Bill 500.
Read the article at The Car Gossip.
