Abstract
Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) are anticipated to revolutionize the transportation sector by enhancing mobility and efficiency. However, the rise in travel demand resulting from increased accessibility and convenience may counterbalance the potential fuel savings associated with AVs. For this reason, this study examines the relationship between travel demand and fuel consumption, considering factors such as travel time, number of trips, and travel patterns. Through a combination of theoretical analysis and empirical data, the research aims to quantify the net effect of travel demand increment under varying demand scenarios using AVs on fuel consumption. The results showed that with the convenience of AVs, people may be more willing to tolerate longer commutes. This has led to an increase in Vehicle Hours Travelled, which directly translated to higher fuel consumption. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in designing sustainable transportation strategies and optimizing the energy efficiency of AV-based mobility systems.
