Autonomous vehicle integration with public transit for congestion mitigation and energy efficiency

The advent of autonomous vehicles (AVs) technology has the potential to significantly reshape urban transportation systems. This study examines the integration of AVs with public transportation and its impact on network efficiency, modal shifts, and environmental sustainability. Using an agent-based simulation framework combined with network-level analyses, we evaluate key metrics such as vehicle kilometers traveled (VKT), average travel speeds, and pollutant emissions under two scenarios: with and without AVs. The findings reveal that AV integration reduces private vehicle use by 6.97% while increasing public transport ridership by 6.73%. Correspondingly, carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions decrease by 15.41%, accompanied by reductions in other pollutants such as CO, NOx. The results highlight the capacity of AVs to enhance network efficiency and facilitate a transition toward more sustainable urban mobility. This research underscores the importance of aligning AV deployment with existing public transport systems to amplify these benefits. By demonstrating how AV-based systems can complement multimodal networks, this study provides critical insights for policymakers and urban planners aiming to optimize future transportation strategies for environmental and operational objectives.