The Evolving Landscape of Urban Mobility: A Case Study of Autonomous Vehicles and Traditional Taxis in New York City

Ajaz, Haaris

The Evolving Landscape of Urban Mobility: A Case Study of Autonomous Vehicles and Traditional Taxis in New York City

Persistent URL

https://hdl.handle.net/10456/59229

Author(s)

Ajaz, Haaris

Date Issued

March 15, 2025

Abstract

This study examines the disruption of the New York City taxi industry, focusing on Uber's impact and the potential effects of autonomous vehicles (AVs). Uber's disruption involved circumventing traditional taxi regulations by connecting passengers with drivers via a mobile app, which led to plummeting medallion values and increased competition for drivers. The potential effects of AVs include reduced operating costs, improved safety, and reshaping regulations and market dynamics. Market theories, such as the Contestable Market Theory, the Two-Sided Market Theory, Metcalfe’s Law, and Creative Destruction, are used to analyze these changes. Additionally, Porter's Five Forces to analyze the competitive intensity within the industry. To collect empirical data for this analysis this study employs market theory analysis, stakeholder interviews, and data evaluation to provide insights into the evolving transportation landscape and addresses the central research question: How will autonomous vehicles (AVs) impact the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) market, drawing on lessons from Uber's disruptive entry?

Major

Business

First Reader(s)

Nonnenmacher, Tomas W.