Shared autonomous micro-mobility for walkable cities

The integration of autonomy into micro-mobility systems has given rise to a new solution known as shared autonomous micro-mobility (SAmM)(1). This paper delves into the opportunities that emerge from this concept, which is driven by the resurgence of walkable, human-centric cities and the advancements in autonomous vehicles. While most autonomous vehicle research has focused on cars and taxis, SAmM proposes more lightweight and environmentally friendly alternatives that align with the vision of more human-centered, walkable cities. At the same time, the integration of autonomy into micro-mobility systems holds the potential to enhance efficiency by reducing fleet sizes and increase convenience by transforming them into on-demand mobility services. This study presents a roadmap for the successful implementation of SAmM, covering essential aspects such as vehicle design, infrastructure requirements, and operational strategies. This research sheds light on the transformative potential of SAmM and provides insights for mobility operators, urban planners, policymakers, and researchers.