Planetizen

Study: Self-Driving Cars Could Raise VMT by 6%, Increasing Congestion

A University of Texas‑Arlington analysis predicts that a major shift to autonomous vehicles in U.S. cities would lift vehicle miles traveled (VMT) by about 6%, even when users switch from privately owned cars to shared robotaxis. The study warns that this modest rise could trigger significant congestion, as empty‑vehicle deadheading may double daily miles. While autonomous technology promises safety, accessibility for non‑drivers, and electric‑vehicle decarbonization, the added mileage could erode fuel‑tax revenues and strain transit budgets. Consequently, the anticipated efficiency gains may be outweighed by higher car dependency and traffic snarls.