Assessing the Potential Equity Impacts of the Clean Miles Standard (SB 1014) with an Emphasis on Part-Time Ridehail Drivers

Research Team: Susan Shaheen (lead), Elliot Martin, and Mengying Ju

UC Campus(es): UC Berkeley

Problem Statement: California ranks among the largest markets for Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), boasting over 400,000 drivers. TNCs play a crucial role in providing on-demand mobility services. Nevertheless, their operations contribute to increased vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and emissions. To tackle this issue, California enacted SB 1014, known as the Clean Miles Standard and Incentive Program, which establishes emission reduction targets aimed at electrifying TNC fleets. Previous research centered on full-time TNC drivers highlighted economic and technical challenges associated with TNC electrification, including cost, range limitations, and charging accessibility. Social equity concerns, particularly among TNC drivers from underserved communities, also emerged as a significant issue. Notably, past research has uncovered substantial disparities in the dynamics and challenges faced by full-time and part-time TNC drivers. Part-time drivers, despite contributing less to TNC revenues, are also mandated to transition to electric vehicles under SB 1014. Experts estimate that over half of all TNC drivers are part-time. Therefore, gaining a deeper understanding of the obstacles and strategies for achieving equity among part-time drivers is imperative to prevent unintended consequences of SB 1014 on this crucial segment of the labor market.

Project Description: This project will investigate potential equity impacts associated with SB 1014's electrification requirements, particularly for part-time TNC drivers, and analyze and recommend incentive strategies to the state agencies responsible for implementing SB 1014–the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Air Resources Board. The researchers will also examine barriers to electric vehicle adoption for part-time TNC drivers, analyze TNC trip patterns, and evaluate charging infrastructure accessibility. To conduct this research, the team will undertake a variety of data collection and analysis efforts, including focus groups, interviews, a multilingual survey, TNC trip activity data analysis, and more. To engage key stakeholders, the researchers intend to collaborate with Rideshare Drivers United, a Driver’s Seat Cooperative, and the International Association of Transportation Regulators.

Status: In Progress

Budget: $115,000