Preparing for autonomous vehicle service: productive discussions for long-term success

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) in the public sector have evolved over the past few years, as have use cases, vehicle types, rider experience and capabilities. Cities and transit agencies may wonder where to start and how to differentiate between AV providers.

It can be confusing to understand the difference between a robotaxi, microtransit AV or an AV circulator. Matching the right type of service and the capabilities of the available service providers to community needs and long-term strategic plans for a city and transit agency can help set the path for greater sustainability of the service and increased rider satisfaction.