[LeanderK]

I don't agree. Self-driving cars can solve the "last-mile" problem and I am convinced that they are actually the most important tool for building the 21. century public-transportation.

At least in Europe, public transportation is usually pretty good already and there is a lot of capacity left unused because while trains are going relatively deep into the suburbs and countryside, they only serve those living next to it. Self-driving cars could unlock this potential.

Edit: If you look at for example Munich, I don't think self-driving cars will be a challenge to the public transportation inside the city. But they can help getting completely rid of your own car (or alleviate the desire to buy one).

[rrhyne]

I like this point. My concern is people using autonomous vehicles to commute.

[Tiktaalik]

Cheaper, more efficient and better "last mile" solutions: Bicycle share in protected bike lanes, a pleasant walk.

[icebraining]

Generally yes, but you still need a solution for the cases not covered by those, like my 84-year-old neighbor who has kidney dialysis twice a week, and who can't really walk more than a few meters anymore.

The trick is to cover every case but nudge people to take the less demanding option if they can. Easier said than done, though.