Robotaxis add 15% empty mileage, raise safety issues in New York

A study by the Sam‑Schwartz Research Program at Hunter College and Open Plans found that autonomous robotaxis in New York travel about 15% more miles without passengers than traditional ride‑hail services. Waymo vehicles logged 0.71 empty miles per passenger mile, compared with 0.49 for Uber and Lyft, potentially adding nearly 300,000 extra miles per day if 2,000 robotaxis operate without reducing existing rides. The analysis also notes a mixed safety picture: overall injuries in accidents have fallen, but severe events may occur more often, prompting calls from city officials for greater data transparency.

Separate research highlights broader trends shaping urban mobility worldwide, including autonomous vehicles, electric propulsion, and shared‑mobility services. Integrated mobility systems could improve safety and cut pollution, delivering benefits valued at up to $600 billion in 50 major metros, while the speed and impact of change depend on local factors such as population density, income, public investment, and infrastructure readiness.