Considering the wellbeing implications for an ageing population of a transition to automated vehicles

Abstract

As populations around the world age, the challenge of ensuring that transport systems can contribute to the wellbeing of older adults becomes more pertinent. Maintaining wellbeing is particularly challenging for older adults in car-dependent societies who have to stop driving at some point in life. It is widely suggested that automated transport will provide a technological solution to the challenges of reduced accessibility and mobility faced by older adults who can no longer drive.In this position paper, we explore the potential wellbeing implications for an ageing population of a transition to automated vehicles and consequent social and spatial shifts in the context of Aotearoa New Zealand, which is a highly car dependent nation. We discuss the processes through which different levels of automation, and different models of vehicle access, could result in different wellbeing outcomes through changes to travel behaviours and urban form.We conclude by discussing the implications of our findings for transport policy and managerial practice, both in Aotearoa New Zealand and cities globally. Ultimately, we argue that the efficacy of emerging transport technologies for ageing populations depends on the extent to which new technologies are accessible and affordable for older people and how far they can support development of denser, less car reliant urban environments. Achieving this is a challenge for transport management.