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on Transport Economics |
| By: | Roman Zakharenko |
| Abstract: | People repeatedly demand travel, using available vehicles scattered around space. What can justify vehicle withholding (i.e. preventing others from using it, for own future use) from the social welfare perspective? This paper investigates heterogeneity in the potential cost of search for alternative vehicles as such justification. It is shown that travellers whose search cost is substantially higher than that of others (e.g. limited-mobility people) can optimally withhold a vehicle. The heterogeneity of search costs should be sufficiently strong, e.g. a uniform distribution is not variable enough to justify withholding by anyone. In an example calibrated for car use in London, it is shown that at most 39% of car users should withhold their vehicles under the most extreme modelling assumptions, while all others should share. |
| Keywords: | Vehicle sharing, Transportation demand, Spatial search frictions |
| JEL: | D61 L92 O18 R40 |
| Date: | 2024–05 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gla:glaewp:2024_07 |
| By: | Cynthia Aubert; Charles Séguin; Andrée De Serres |
| Abstract: | The transportation industry is a vector of important change to meet the challenges of sustainability and resilience of our societies. It is the second largest GHG emitter in Canada, accounting for nearly 28% of the country's total emissions. Among these emissions, 57% were attributable to the travel of Canadians in 2021, of which 30% are linked solely to the use of private cars. To limit their circulation, the development of public transit infrastructure is an effective way. However, such infrastructure has indirect effects on GHG emissions due to its interdependence with the urban planning and its socio-economic characteristics. This research paper aims to evaluate the impact of the commissioning of a public transit infrastructure on the evolution of a city's GHG emissions over time. The case of the Vancouver SkyTrain's Canada Line was analyzed. The methodology used to carry out this study is a synthetic control. This is one of the contributions of this research to the existing literature, whose studies generally only assess the direct effects of a transportation infrastructure from the emissions avoided by the modal shift of passengers. The data analyzed was collected from the open databases of Canadian cities and Statistics Canada. These include GHG emissions in CO2 equivalent, GDP, gasoline and fuel tax revenues, construction investments, number of inhabitants and their transportation habits in the cities in the control group. The results show that the introduction of the Canada Line resulted in an increase of approximately 8.6% in Vancouver's GHG emissions in 2011. This increase could be explained by the redevelopment of neighborhoods around infrastructure stations to the detriment of their gentrification, accentuating urban sprawl. For an investment in a sustainable means of transport to effectively reduce GHG emissions in the long term, more emphasis should be placed on the interactions between transport, urban development (to be built or renovated) and the socio-economic characteristics of neighborhoods. Studies with more spatial precision would provide a better understanding of the interweaving of social, economic, and environmental changes generated by transportation infrastructure and affecting a city's GHG emissions. |
| Keywords: | Greenhouse gas emissions; Public transportation infrastructure; Sustainable city; Sustainable mobility |
| JEL: | R3 |
| Date: | 2024–01–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arz:wpaper:eres2024-150 |
| By: | Heid, Pascal; Remmy, Kevin; Reynaert, Mathias |
| Abstract: | The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) shifts the complementary market for passenger transport from oil to electricity. We develop and estimate a joint equilibrium model of the German electricity and automobile markets, emphasizing the timing of EV charging, as electricity generation costs and pollution vary intraday. Our results show that under Germany’s current electricity pricing scheme, EVs create a significant pecuniary externality: electricity expenses rise by €0.66 for every €1 spent charging. Exposing charging to wholesale price variation eliminates the pecuniary externality, makes EVs greener, and increases adoption—a triple dividend. |
| Keywords: | Electric vehicles; electricity markets; charging; complementary markets |
| JEL: | L5 L6 L9 Q4 Q5 |
| Date: | 2024–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:tse:wpaper:129899 |
| By: | Xing, Yan; Pike, Susan; Waechter, Maxwell; DeLeon, Graham; Lipatova, Liubov; Handy, Susan; Wang, Yunshi |
| Abstract: | Transportation-disadvantaged populations often face significant challenges in meeting their basic travel needs. Microtransit, a technology-enabled transit mobility solution, has the potential to address these issues by providing on-demand, affordable, and flexible services with multi-passenger vehicles. The ways in which microtransit supports underserved populations and the factors influencing its adoption are not well-studied, however. This research examines SmaRT Ride, a microtransit pilot program in the Sacramento, California, area operated by Sacramento Regional Transit. The project evaluates a broad range of factors influencing microtransit adoption and travel behavior among underserved populations using original revealed choice survey data collected from February – May 2024 with online and intercept surveys. A descriptive analysis revealed that SmaRT Ride has improved transportation access for these communities, complements the transit system by connecting fixed-route transit, and offers a cost-effective alternative to other transportation modes. A binary logistic regression was employed to explore differences between microtransit users and non-users with microtransit awareness. The results indicate that homeownership, employment status, frequency of public transit service use, and attitude towards transit significantly affect microtransit use. Homeowners are more likely to use microtransit, while households without employed members are less likely. In contrast, part-time employees show a higher inclination to use microtransit. Regular public transit users are also more likely to incorporate microtransit into their routines, with a positive attitude toward public transit further increasing the likelihood of its use. The nuanced understanding of microtransit adoption presented here can inform targeted strategies to promote its use among transportation-disadvantaged groups. The results suggest that integrating microtransit with existing transit, outreach programs, discounted or free access, extended service hours, and supporting homeownership and affordable housing in transit-rich areas can encourage microtransit adoption by low-income and/or underserved individuals. View the NCST Project Webpage |
| Keywords: | Social and Behavioral Sciences, underserved populations, SmaRT Ride, microtransit adoption, transportation access |
| Date: | 2024–10–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdl:itsdav:qt9863j1fz |
| By: | Till Kösters (Institute of Transport Economics, Muenster); Jan Wessel (Institute of Transport Economics, Muenster); Sebastian Specht (Institute of Transport Economics, Muenster) |
| Abstract: | The fundamental diagram of traffic congestion states that driving speed generally decreases with traffic flow, and that marginal decreases become more pronounced for higher flows. We find, however, that this seemingly fundamental relationship breaks down when only very few cars are on the road, and speed actually increases with traffic flow. To reveal this surprising finding, we use a unique large-scale real-world dataset with per-minute traffic observations from the German Autobahn, and control for confounders of the speed-flow relationship in a fixed-effects regression model. By linking our robust results to psychological research on social interaction effects in traffic, we then discuss potential reasons for this behaviour. |
| Keywords: | speed-flow relationship, fundamental diagram of traffic congestion, traffic psychology |
| JEL: | R41 |
| Date: | 2024–11 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:mut:wpaper:41 |
| By: | Mateus Rodrigues; Daniel Da Mata; Vitor Possebom |
| Abstract: | We study the effects of a free-fare transport policy implemented by Brazilian localities on employment and greenhouse gas emissions. Using a staggered difference-in-differences approach, we find that fare-free transit increases employment by 3.2% and reduces emissions by 4.1%, indicating that transport policies can decouple economic activity from environmental damage. Our results are driven by workers transitioning from higher-emission to lower-emission sectors instead of being driven by a decline in private transportation use. Cost-benefit analyses suggest that the costly policy only presents net benefits after considering the tax inflows of the increased economic activity and the benefits of reduced carbon emissions. |
| Date: | 2024–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2410.06037 |
| By: | Samnguinetti, Angela |
| Abstract: | The concept of Universal Basic Mobility (UBM) calls upon policymakers to ensure all people have access to transportation services for basic needs like work, food, and healthcare. Pilot programs in California and beyond are testing UBM as a means to address the problem of transport poverty, often defined as a household spending more than 10% of their income on transportation (the average American household spends 16%). Transport poverty also encompasses issues of mobility access (e.g., how far a person can travel and what types of destinations they can reach in a defined amount of time) and transportation experience (e.g., safety). Those particularly vulnerable to transport poverty include low-income households, communities of color, undocumented immigrants, persons with disabilities, and youth who are neither working nor in school. |
| Keywords: | Social and Behavioral Sciences |
| Date: | 2024–09–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdl:itsdav:qt07c3c678 |
| By: | Julius Range; Benedikt Gloria; Albert Erasmus Grafe |
| Abstract: | The rapid increasing demand for freight transport has precipitated a critical need for expanded infrastructure, particularly in Germany, where a significant crisis in Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) parking facilities is emerging. Our study aims to determine the optimum supply of HGV parking lots required to mitigate this problem. Utilizing state-of-the-art object detection techniques in satellite imagery, we conduct a comprehensive analysis to assess the current availability of HGV parking spaces. Our machine learning-based approach enables an accurate and large-scale evaluation, revealing a considerable undersupply of HGV parking lots across Germany. These findings underscore the severity of the infrastructure deficit in the context of increasing freight transport demands. In a next step, we conduct a location analysis to determine regions, which are impacted acutely. Our results therefore deliver valuable insights to specialized real-estate developers seeking to cater to the demand and profit from this deficit. Based on the results, we develop industry and policy recommendations aimed at addressing this shortfall. |
| Keywords: | Machine Learning; satellite image analysis; specialized real estate; Transportation |
| JEL: | R3 |
| Date: | 2024–01–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arz:wpaper:eres2024-164 |
| By: | Patrice Bougette (Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, GREDEG, France); Frédéric Marty (Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, GREDEG, France) |
| Abstract: | This paper examines the interplay between transport and competition law within the EU, particularly focusing on case law in the context of liberalization. The transport sector, marked by natural monopolies, often requires specific regulation alongside competition law to address issues like exclusionary practices by incumbents. Despite liberalization efforts, dominant players may still hinder competition through control of essential infrastructure. The entry discusses legal and regulatory strategies to ensure fair market access and competition and considers broader socio-economic impacts such as regional development and environmental sustainability. |
| Keywords: | Competition Law, Liberalization, Natural Monopolies, Essential Infrastructure, Vertical Integration, Regulatory Frameworks |
| JEL: | L41 L43 K21 L51 R48 L92 |
| Date: | 2024–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gre:wpaper:2024-28 |
| By: | Hannah Salzberger; Tobias Just |
| Abstract: | Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the future of office buildings has become a popular topic, heightened by the pervasive adoption of the work-from-home model. As remote work transitions from being a rare obscurity to a part of daily routines, the spatial dynamics of office locations undergo a profound reassessment in terms of cost-benefit analysis for central and peripheral office space. This research presents a model that illustrates the optimal or minimum aggregated travel cost location based on distinct working modes. Initially, a city model is introduced, operating on the premise that individuals prioritize proximity to their workplace. The central focus revolves around the dichotomy between central business districts (CBD) and peripheral office locations, envisioning at first a monocentric city with higher population density near the CBD. This framework compares aggregated commuting costs to the CBD against those associated with travel to peripheral office locations. Subsequently, four satellite office locations are evaluated in relation to the Central Business District (CBD) based on their aggregated commuting costs. The analysis distinguishes between two distinct working models: team-dependent tasks and tasks that can be performed independently, suggesting a transformative shift in the role of office spaces towards collaborative hubs on the one hand and traditional space facilitating single-desk office work. A simulation is employed to vary team sizes, determining whether, for each size and working model, offices are better situated in the city center or on the outskirts. By contributing to the ongoing discourse on the evolution of office spaces, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the optimal office location based on commuting costs, considering the nature of collaborative and individual work models. |
| Keywords: | Aggregated travel costs; Monocentric city model; Office location; Spatial Allocation |
| JEL: | R3 |
| Date: | 2024–01–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arz:wpaper:eres2024-143 |
| By: | - |
| Abstract: | The Caribbean faces mounting challenges related to the management of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs). The increasing influx of vehicles, in the face of limited land availability and environmental vulnerabilities, demands a comprehensive and sustainable approach to ELV recycling. The increase in vehicle importation over the past three decades has been made possible, in part, by economic factors such as increased incomes associated with economic growth, as well as social factors such as urbanization and lifestyle preferences which demand greater independence and private mobility (Phillips et al, 2023). Perhaps the most significant impetus however has been the importation and availability of used vehicles, sourced at significantly reduced costs from South-East Asia (Japan, Singapore and South Korea). Today, such imports have resulted in high vehicle population ratios, ranging from between 0.45 to 0.95 for many Caribbean countries. |
| Date: | 2024–10–15 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ecr:col095:80769 |
| By: | VILKMAN Marja |
| Abstract: | This report summarises the recent advancements in battery technologies for mobility applications, focusing on electric vehicles, and looks at the main barriers encountered in their journey from lab to market. Both Li-ion batteries and next-generation batteries are discussed. The report includes information about identified barriers for scaling-up the battery manufacturing industry in Europe and proposes solutions to overcome them. It identifies technical challenges, such as manufacturing of Li-ion and next-generation batteries at industrial scale, while maintaining high yield and quality without excessive cost. It also reveals that scaling up is hindered by financial issues and lack of funding, especially given how expensive and risky setting up raw material, recycling or cell manufacturing factories is. The findings also highlight how unpredictable permitting can be a significant barrier, as well as the limited citizen acceptance of either new factories or electric vehicles in general. As solutions, we propose setting up pilot facilities to validate new processes and materials, increased financial support and an improved financial framework to create a level playing field when compared to USA and Asia, and clear rules for permitting. Also, activities to train workforce for the factories is needed, as well as sharing clear and reliable information about batteries for citizens and policymakers. The findings are based on interviews with a sample of 17 research centres, companies and umbrella organisations in Europe along the battery value chain, as well as literature information and the author’s participation in European projects, events, and networks. Relevant policies, such as the Net-Zero Industry Act, the Critical Raw Materials Act and the Batteries Regulation, are taken into consideration in the analysis. |
| Date: | 2024–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ipt:iptwpa:jrc139632 |
| By: | Xinyan Liu; Yu Bai; Yanjun Li; Yajie Sun |
| Abstract: | Child trafficking is a deep-seated social issue with enduring consequences that remain concealed or less obvious to the general public. We argue that the intensity of child trafficking increases as an indirect and unintended consequence of improved urban infrastructure, such as the construction of highways that facilitate the expedient transfer of victims between cities. To establish a causal relationship, we analyze data on child abduction and combine it with geo-referenced information on China’s highway routes. Using a staggered difference-in-differences approach and a city-to-city analysis, we find that the construction of highways in a city significantly leads to an increase in abducted children. Changes in both demand and supply factors following the highway construction could explain the increase in child trafficking. |
| Date: | 2024–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:toh:tupdaa:56 |
| By: | Ka Man Leung; Lennon Hung Tat Choy |
| Abstract: | This study examines if metro served major housing estates in Hong Kong gentrify faster than non-metro served ones. If so, in what distance does this effect last? Data of the latest population censuses conducted in 2016 and 2021 are employed in the analyses. Controlling the changes in population characteristics, the results show that major housing estates with metro served within 250m gentrified faster than non-metro served ones (in terms of all three gentrification indicators). The effects lessened when larger sized buffers are employed. Meanwhile, the effects of new stations are also revealed through the analyses. These results provide a fuller picture of how gentrification happens in rental housing with different metro accessibility, which are important references for academic research and policy implementations. |
| Keywords: | Difference-in-differences approach; Gentrification; Major housing estates; Metro accessibility |
| JEL: | R3 |
| Date: | 2024–01–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arz:wpaper:eres2024-192 |
| By: | Marcelo Gallardo; Manuel Loaiza; Jorge Ch\'avez |
| Abstract: | In this paper we introduce two novel models derived from the discrete optimal transport problem. The first model extends the traditional transport problem by adding a quadratic congestion factor directly into the cost function, while the second model replaces conventional constraints with weighted penalization terms. We present theoretical contributions, including the study and characterization of interior and corner solution for some specific cases, convergence to the optimal solutions, as well as smooth comparative statics analysis. Finally, we propose an $O((N+L)(NL)^2)$ algorithm for computing the optimal plan for the penalized model assuming interior solutions. |
| Date: | 2024–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2410.07363 |