Connected And Autonomous Vehicles: Implications For Policy And Practice In City And Transportation Planning

Vehicular transportation is undergoing a technological change. Cars are being automated, which have significant implications for governments. Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) and Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) can have significant benefits such as improved overall roadside safety and efficiency however, there may also be negative effects as well such as increased sprawl and social inequity. In Ontario, AV testing on public roads has been conducted under O. Reg. 306/15, which has also helped to establish Ontario as a leader of innovation in Canada. Before CAVs can be mass deployed in Ontario and Canada at large however, a number of barriers will need to be addressed such as legislation, infrastructure and cooperation between municipalities, and between municipalities and the automotive industry. Recommendations for municipal and provincial governments are provided.