What Uber and Lyft Rideshare Drivers Can Do to Prepare for the Autonomous Car Revolution
The rise of self-driving cars, backed by companies like Tesla, Amazon, Uber, and Waymo, is no longer a far-off concept. It's happening in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and soon Austin and Atlanta. Tesla and Amazon are also diving into this space, and it's clear that the future of transportation is changing.
Autonomous vehicles aren't just a futuristic idea. They are actively being deployed, and the financial incentives behind them are strong. Uber's $20 fare is currently split between drivers and Uber. As drivers, we get around $7 after costs. However, autonomous vehicles could reduce that fare to $13, making it more appealing to riders.
While passengers appreciate the quality drivers provide, they prioritize price and speed. With autonomous cars promising lower fares, drivers must prepare for the inevitable.
Diversify Your Income Streams
Relying solely on rideshare income is risky, even without the threat of autonomous vehicles. Whether it's accidents, app deactivation, or riders' complaints, the security of gig work is never guaranteed.
Now more than ever, drivers need to explore additional revenue streams. One option is to add other gigs like Amazon deliveries. By broadening our income sources, drivers can safeguard against the uncertainties brought by autonomous cars.
Don't Deny the Reality
It's easy to shrug off autonomous vehicles as a distant concern. Denial isn't a strategy. While the full impact of self-driving cars might take years to unfold, cities like Atlanta could see changes within months. Accepting that this shift is happening is the first step to being mentally prepared.
Develop Your Skills
Another way drivers can prepare for the future is by improving their skill sets. I usually listen to music or fun podcasts. Now, I'm going to focus on learning. Whether it's picking up a new language, improving customer service, or acquiring other in-demand skills, using time between rides productively can make a big difference.
Continuous learning is not only valuable for professional growth but also ensures drivers have options when the autonomous wave hits.
Get Your Finances in Order
With the potential for reduced earnings, managing your finances becomes crucial. It will only get more challenging if you struggle to make ends meet now. Use this time to get out of debt, save as much as possible, and create a financial cushion for the future.
Autonomous vehicles are not just about cars—they represent a broader technological revolution that will affect all industries, from accounting to healthcare. While change is inevitable, drivers still have an opportunity to make money and prepare.
Are you ready for autonomous cars to hit your city? Whether skeptical or optimistic, it's time to face the facts. Now is the moment to diversify, improve, and prepare for the future of ridesharing.
Don't wait! Autonomous cars are coming, and drivers need to be proactive. How will you diversify your income? What new skills will you learn? Start today, and be ready for tomorrow.
