This study delves into the energy and emissions impacts of Shared Autonomous and Electric Vehicles (SAEVs) on disadvantaged
communities in California. It explores the intersection of evolving transportation technologies—electric, autonomous, and shared
mobility—and their implications for equity, energy consumption, and emissions. Through high-resolution spatial and temporal
analyses, this research evaluates the distribution of benefits and costs of SAEVs across diverse populations, incorporating
environmental justice principles. The quantitative findings reveal that electrification of the vehicle fleet leads to a 63% to 71%
decrease in CO2 emissions even with the current grid mix, and up to 84%-87% under a decarbonized grid with regular charging.
The introduction of smart charging further enhances these benefits, resulting in a 93.5% - 95% reduction in CO2 emissions.
However, the distribution of these air quality benefits is uneven, with disadvantaged communities experiencing approximately
15% less benefits compared to more advantaged areas. The study emphasizes the critical role of vehicle electrification and grid
decarbonization in emissions reduction, and highlights the need for policies ensuring equitable distribution of SAEV benefits to
promote sustainable and inclusive mobility.
