Investigating the potential impact of autonomous vehicles, a KwaZulu-Natal civil engineer’s perspective.

Abstract

This dissertation paper examines the potential impact of autonomous vehicles from the perspective of fifteen civil engineers based in KwaZulu-Natal. With the advent of this groundbreaking autonomous vehicle technology, it is crucial to assess its implications on various aspects of transportation systems and infrastructure development. The study examines the potential benefits and challenges of adopting autonomous vehicles, including their impact on traffic congestion, road safety, and environmental sustainability. Autonomous vehicles are still in the research and development phase, but several influential stakeholders are already establishing partnerships to strengthen their position in future transportation markets. The invention of automobiles has shaped our society, influencing how we commute, where we live, and how we build our cities and infrastructure. While automotive vehicles offer transportation freedom and contribute to economic growth, they also pose sustainability challenges. Issues like safety, environmental impact, traffic congestion, and time spent on operation highlight the need for more sustainable transportation solutions. Autonomous vehicles can sense their environments to perform at least some aspects of safety-critical control (like steering, throttling, or braking) without direct human input. This dissertation aims to develop a strong foundation for anticipating the potential impacts of vehicle automation advancements in South Africa. User acceptance of autonomous vehicles is a crucial concern in the transportation industry. It's vital not to underestimate their potential impact and implications. These vehicles have the capacity to make a significant positive global impact, making them valuable assets for governments and automotive industries alike. The study will utilize a qualitative research approach involving a sample of fifteen (15) civil engineers employed in the road infrastructure sector within the KwaZulu-Natal region. This research will provide valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, engineers, and stakeholders involved in the future integration of autonomous vehicles in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond through a comprehensive review of existing literature and expert interviews. The study suggests future research should compare regions in South Africa, use quantitative methods, track long-term impacts, collaborate across disciplines, study public perceptions, examine legal frameworks, assess environmental impacts, monitor technological advancements, analyze economic implications, and engage local communities. The study concludes that autonomous vehicles offer significant potential for revolutionizing transportation in South Africa. They promise improved efficiency, enhanced safety features, and various societal impacts, including changes in urban planning and job creation. Despite initial costs, long-term benefits such as reduced accidents and increased efficiency outweigh them.