Analyzing the Social Impacts of Autonomous Vehicle Technology on Cities: A Qualitative Approach Based on Systematic Literature Review

Document Type : Research article

Authors

1 Associate ProfessorDept. of Urban Planning & DesignFaculty of Architecture & ArtUniversity of GuilanRasht- IranWebsite: https://guilan.ac.ir/~s.mohammadpourPhone: +989124243041+989112474435 +9813333690276

2 Ph.D. Student in Urban planning- University of Guilan

3 University of Shiraz

10.22059/jurbangeo.2025.398118.2075

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of emerging technologies in urban transportation, autonomous vehicles (AVs) have emerged as one of the most transformative innovations shaping the future of smart cities. Despite the extensive focus of previous studies on the technical aspects of this technology, its social implications for the spatial and human structure of cities remain relatively underexplored. This study adopts a qualitative approach and employs a systematic literature review method to examine and analyze the social dimensions of autonomous vehicle technology. The research data were derived from the analysis of 102 selected international scientific articles published between 2014 and 2024. Utilizing MaxQDA software, the data were analyzed through a three-stage coding process: open, axial, and selective coding.

The findings reveal that the social impacts of AVs can be categorized into three main themes: social equity (with an emphasis on the inclusion of vulnerable groups), public health (encompassing both direct and indirect effects on the physical and mental well-being of citizens), and urban quality of life (focusing on livability and overall well-being). The analysis suggests that AV technology holds significant potential to redefine these key concepts. However, realizing this potential requires the development and implementation of comprehensive, human-centered, and multidisciplinary policies that go beyond purely technology-driven perspectives to incorporate the social, ethical, and spatial dimensions of the technology. The findings of this study can serve as a foundation for social impact assessments and technological policymaking in the realm of future urban transportation.

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