Modeling the Deployment of Shared Autonomous Vehicles to Enhance Accessibility and Transport Equity

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Civil Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 School of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of shared autonomous vehicles (SAVs) on social equity and accessibility in urban transport systems, focusing on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and people with disabilities. Using a combination of survey data and logistic regression modeling, the research compares accessibility, travel costs, and satisfaction with transport services before and after the introduction of SAVs in Tehran. Results indicate that the deployment of shared autonomous vehicles significantly improves access to transportation, reduces travel costs, and enhances perceived fairness in service distribution for disadvantaged groups. Furthermore, scatter plot and Cook’s distance analyses reveal that the predictive accuracy of accessibility models increases post-implementation, suggesting a stabilizing effect of SAVs on travel behavior. Overall, this study highlights that shared autonomous vehicles can serve as an effective tool for promoting social equity in urban transport and provides practical insights for policymakers aiming to integrate autonomous mobility solutions into public transport systems.

Keywords

References

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Interdisciplinary Journal of Civil Engineering
Volume 1, Issue 3 - Serial Number 3
September 2025
Pages 238-255

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