The introduction of driverless 'robotaxis' onto London's streets could lead to a substantial increase in traffic congestion and negatively impact the efficiency of public bus services, a new report has indicated. Experts are cautioning that without a robust regulatory framework, the capital risks exacerbating its already significant transport challenges.
The concerns stem from the potential for autonomous vehicles to operate in ways that differ from traditional taxis. For instance, 'robotaxis' might travel empty between fares or cruise for passengers, adding to the overall vehicle miles travelled within the city. This 'dead running' could contribute to a denser traffic environment, particularly in central London, where road space is already at a premium.
The report highlights that any increase in congestion directly impacts bus reliability and journey times. Buses, which carry a large proportion of London's commuters, are particularly vulnerable to delays caused by increased traffic volumes. This could undermine efforts to encourage public transport use and contribute to longer commute times for many residents.
While autonomous vehicle technology promises benefits such as improved safety and efficiency in the long term, the immediate implications for urban environments like London require careful consideration. The current absence of a comprehensive strategy for integrating these vehicles into the existing transport network is a key point of concern for analysts.
Stakeholders are urging policymakers to develop clear guidelines and regulations that address the unique operational characteristics of driverless vehicles. This includes considering measures to manage empty vehicle movements, incentivise shared rides, and ensure that the deployment of robotaxis aligns with London's broader goals for sustainable and efficient urban mobility.