Preparing for Fully Autonomous Vehicles in Australian Cities: Land-Use Planning—Adapting, Transforming, and Innovating

Abstract

A literature review found no evidence that there is any understanding of what it takes to plan land uses for the transition to fully autonomous vehicles at the precinct level, nor any conceptual agreement on the nature of the transformation of roads and their frontages. The methodology is based on the authors’ previous research into road friction and impact, which led to the production of Australian government guidelines. A case study of the City of Unley, South Australia, demonstrates the principles of risk analysis and risk management. Examples are then given on how to modify road movement corridors and adjacent land-use precincts in low-density, car-dependent environments, in high-density mixed land-use areas, in consolidating residential lots along movement corridors, and in areas with mobility hubs, all illustrated using conceptual sketches and plans. Directions for further research, of which collaborative workshops are needed involving different disciplinary perspectives on urban planning are identified.