Brace for impacts: Perceived impacts and responses relating to the state of connected and autonomous vehicles in Gothenburg

Abstract

It is anticipated that Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) will be introduced for public use in the coming decade. Thus, it is important to consider how ready cities are to integrate them into the urban environment. To address this question, this article frames the introduction of CAVs within the context of a socio-technical transition. We use the Drivers, Pressures, State, Impact and Response (DPSIR) framework to identify the impacts and responses of the introduction of CAVs in cities, with a specific emphasis on Gothenburg, Sweden. The results of the DPSIR analysis are then analyzed through the lens of transition management, in which the responses are related to strategical, tactical, operational and reflexive governance strategies. It was found that the reflexive component is likely to be critical for a successful introduction of CAVs in cities, so that policies can be adjusted as the uptake of the technology changes. Many issues that could arise from CAVs, such as increased car traffic and physical barriers to mobility, are already addressed in the City of Gothenburg’s official transportation strategy, but there is room for clearer policy with regard to CAV technology.