Self-Driving Cars: A Green Future or a Jevons Paradox in the Making?

• The self-driving car industry is bouncing back after a tough 2023, with companies like Cruise, Waymo, and Tesla making strides in technology and service expansion.
• Proponents argue that autonomous vehicles will make roads safer and reduce emissions, but the Jevons paradox suggests otherwise.
• The paradox indicates that increased efficiency in resource use often leads to higher overall consumption, potentially increasing total emissions and crash deaths.
• Historical examples, like the rise in coal use despite more efficient steam engines, support this theory.
• As self-driving cars become more convenient, people may drive more, negating any environmental or safety benefits.

Source: The Verge