>>1034266>The slight gain in efficiency for automous cars would be instantly offset by the induced demand of automobiles without driver getting to/from pickup spots and more people driving because of more commodityThe only reason cars are so popular right now is that we have a '''''free market''''' solution which has trapped us in a positive feedback loop. Car ownership -> more car infrastructure -> more car ownership -> repeat ad nauseum. Once cars become automated and interlinked, they'll be subject to intelligent urban planning just like the rest of public transport, and the % of transport funds invest in cars will nosedive. I take it I don't have to argue the case to you that cars are less efficient than trains, trams and buses. Hence these methods of transport will prosper at the expense of cars.
People who live in rural areas will still need to own cars, but if you offer free (or at least subsidised) parking on the city outskirts and connect the public transport system directly to the car parks, people will soon learn to leave their cars outside the city center. Especially as parking spaces become less common and streets become pedestrianised.
