Shifting Spaces: Understanding Land Use and Zoning Adaptations for the Autonomous and Shared Mobility Era

Problem Statement

As autonomous vehicles (AVs) and shared mobility gain traction, there’s an urgent need to quantify their land use impacts and reassess zoning requirements. The demand for traditional auto-serving facilities like gas stations, repair shops, and car dealerships is expected to wane, while the need for new types of spaces, such as fleet servicing centers and storage, will rise. This shift also redefines the layout and size of freight logistics areas to accommodate the integration of AV technology. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for urban planners and policymakers as they adapt zoning regulations to meet the evolving needs of urban landscapes. This research aims to provide concrete data on land use changes and propose zoning adjustments that support the transition towards a future where AVs and shared mobility solutions are prevalent, ensuring cities are prepared for a sustainable and efficient transformation in urban land utilization.