Infrastructure-related challenges in implementing connected and automated vehicles on urban roads: Insights from experts and stakeholders

The introduction of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) has the potential to bring numerous advantages to urban mobility. However, many challenges for road infrastructure need to be overcome before those benefits can be achieved. This study addressed multiple dimensions of the implications of CAV deployment for road infrastructure through a comprehensive survey with 168 experts from different sectors and regions around the world. The issues are grouped into five categories: (1) key challenges of accommodating CAVs in existing urban transport networks; (2) infrastructure improvement required for shared CAV models; (3) maintenance aspects of infrastructure for CAVs; (4) implementation time of infrastructure support for CAVs; and (5) financing infrastructure upgrades to facilitate CAVs on the roads. The outcomes of the research show that there is still no consensus among the stakeholders on what should be considered to maximise CAV benefits for society as a whole. This indicates the necessity for cooperation between stakeholders to achieve the safe and efficient operation of CAVs. Overall, this study provides in-depth insights for decision-makers and transport planners to form policies, regulations, and guidelines regarding the future implementation of CAVs for roads before their commercialisation phase.