Environmental Effects of Self-Driving Cars is in Our Hands

By: Joelle Bosia

The environmental effects of self-driving cars are up to us. Both sides of the argument, the positive and negative environmental effects of autonomous vehicles, provide valid points in their defense. Research from the Department of Energy (DOE) shows that autonomous vehicles could increase energy consumption in transportation by 200% or decrease it by 90%. It all depends on how the self-driving car usage is monitored.

On one hand, the potential downsides of self-driving cars pertain to the ease the cars would provide to transportation. People may opt to have longer commutes because they would not have to drive themselves anymore. They may take extra short trips instead of just staying at home. The potential for more energy consumption even continues once the passenger is out of the car. In a congested city, passengers can easily be dropped off, but parking may provide another challenge. Cars may circle blocks multiple times before finding a place to park. All of these factors would increase energy consumption.

On the other hand, self-driving cars can become more energy efficient through the conscious efforts of the manufacturers. One could potentially program their vehicle to take the most energy efficient route. Penalties could be put in place for people who have their cars driven unoccupied. That would help solve the issue of empty cars roaming the streets. The cars themselves could be designed to have the highest energy efficiency to help negate some of the adverse effects that the cars may bring.

All in all, the regulation and thoughtfulness of self-driving cars will dictate their environmental impact in the future.