Consumer adoption of autonomous cars will change the way cities are built and the way we live, work and play. It may also accelerate the move toward smart cities such as Toyota’s Woven City, which was announced at CES® 2020.

Self-driving vehicles offer contactless options for ridesharing and delivery — which has seen an increase in demand since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic — decrease traffic accidents and mitigate vehicles’ environmental effect.

The following are five other ways self-driving cars can change the way we live.

Traditional Structures Make Way

Decreasing private car ownership will in turn reduce the need for traditional parking structures. The land freed up by the removal of parking structures and private car dealerships can be reallocated to housing and other retail or business buildings, meeting the needs of increasing urbanization.cc This can change the pricing of real estate and better distribute urban populations. Areas farther from city centers could grow in popularity as commuting time becomes less of a concern.

Around-the-Clock Mobility

Self-driving vehicles are able to operate around the clock, reducing the strain on shipping and logistics. More efficient supply chains that are not hindered by wait times can potentially lower the cost of shipping and accelerate production timelines. According to PwC’s Global Truck Study 2018, the automation of processes and delivery vehicles will reduce logistics costs for trandard transport by 47% by 2030.

E-commerce businesses and more may experience an increase in business productivity and savings on operational costs.

Building the Roads of the Future

Results from a consumer market survey conducted by an urban mobility consulting firm highlighted that many consumers believe lanes dedicated to self-driving vehicles are a good idea.

The same study also showed that a majority believe that current infrastructures are not ready for autonomous cars. Changes in public transportation use, highways and roads due to mass adoption of self-driving vehicles would mean rapid changes to the way roads and other smart cities infrastructures are built and maintained.

Autonomous Facilities

Self-driving technologies may also extend beyond transportation. Businesses can move to mobile versions, offering new opportunities for engaging with consumers.

Gyms, stores and consulting businesses, for example, could go from customer to customer, expanding their customer base and improving the customer experience. The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® Autonomous Delivery Systems: Consumer Awareness and Favorability report highlighted 48% of consumers are favorable toward self-driving vehicles being used for delivery.

In the hospitality industry, mobile hotel rooms could change the landscape of conferences and events.

Expanding Independent Living Arrangements

Self-driving cars and their use cases could make life easier for people who have mobility problems because of illness, age or disabilities. People who currently have to rely on family members, taxi services, public transportation or their care facilities can more conveniently go to desired locations at their convenience in a safe manner.

This encourages more independent living and increases the choices of living arrangements for those who experience mobility difficulties.

A future with mass adoption of self-driving vehicles may surprise us with other changes and opportunities for businesses, jobs and more.

Learn more about how to make self-driving vehicles a reality.