Eliciting preferences of TNC users and drivers: Evidence from the United States

Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) are transforming the transportation landscape. This study uses a unique sample (N = 11,902) of the U.S. population residing in TNC-served areas to estimate preferences of TNC travelers and drivers. The analysis reveals that TNCs primarily attract personal vehicle users as riders, with minimal impact on transit demand. Around 10% of TNC users postponed new car purchases due to TNC availability. Multinomial logistic regression shows that TNC user likelihood increases with age up to 44, then decreases. Older suburban TNC users with higher vehicle ownership are less likely to use pooled rides. Among daily TNC drivers, 65% considered TNC driving when purchasing vehicles. Households with postgraduate drivers who drive daily in metropolitan regions are more likely to switch to fuel-efficient vehicles. These findings can inform transportation planning and TNC policies.

Prateek Bansal, Akanksha Sinha, Rubal Dua, Ricardo A. Daziano