New Yorkers Are Skeptical Of Self-Driving Robotaxis

Imagine calling for an Uber in New York and seeing a car pull up with nobody behind the wheel. Would you get in? A new nationwide survey suggests that many New Yorkers probably wouldn’t feel great about it.

Researchers surveyed thousands of Americans about self driving rideshare vehicles, also known as robotaxis, and found people in the Northeast remain some of the most skeptical in the country.

New Yorkers Still Prefer Human Drivers

Northeastern states showed some of the strongest resistance to autonomous rideshares. In New Jersey, over 80% of people said they believe robotaxis are less safe than traditional vehicles. More than 8 in 10 said they prefer human drivers over autonomous rides.

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If you’ve ever tried driving in places like New York City, the idea of a driverless car weaving through merges, pedestrians, cyclists, potholes, and double parked delivery trucks feels a little stressful.

People Who’ve Tried Robotaxis Feel Differently

People who have actually ridden in robotaxis seem comfortable with the technology. The survey found almost 65% of robotaxi users said they felt comfortable during the ride, and nearly half said they actually felt safer than they do in traditional rideshares.

They admitted that they they were nervous before getting in for the first time, but said the experience changed their minds.

Exposure Seems To Change Opinions

Nearly 60% of New Yorkers felt uncomfortable with a robotaxi, which is lower than the national average of just over 70%. The strongest support for robotaxis came from states like California and Arizona, where autonomous rideshare programs are already operating in major cities.

The researchers say familiarity appears to make a huge difference. The more often people see and use the technology, the less intimidating it becomes. But for many New Yorkers (myself included), the thought of climbing into an empty driver’s seat taxi feels more like science fiction than everyday reality.