Sustainable Integration of Autonomous Vehicles into Road Networks: Ecological and Passenger Comfort Considerations

Autonomous vehicle (AV) technology is rapidly advancing, leading to a sustainable evolution in transportation. AVs offer the promise of enhanced safety, reduced emissions, improved traffic flow, and increased mobility for passengers. However, the integration of AVs into existing traffic networks presents complex challenges related to ecological sustainability and passenger comfort. This review aims to bridge the gap in the literature by providing a comprehensive evaluation of the influence of AVs on both ecology and passenger comfort within traffic networks. The study synthesizes existing knowledge on AV technology, ecological impacts, and passenger comfort to offer a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with AVs’ integration. The main objectives of this research are to review the current literature on the environmental impact of AVs, analyze studies on passenger comfort in AVs, identify key challenges and opportunities, and propose future research directions. The results highlight the need for a holistic, sustainable approach that considers both ecological and passenger-centric factors in the design and deployment of AVs. Future research directions are proposed to further our understanding of the complex interplay between AVs, the environment, and passenger well-being, and inform policy decisions and technological advancements that promote sustainable and comfortable transportation solutions.