Ultimately the operating profit of a vehicle has to create a return on the capital outlay. Uber's current network effect guarantees a high utilization as auton

Ultimately the operating profit of a vehicle has to create a return on the capital outlay. Uber's current network effect guarantees a high utilization as autonomous vehicles are introduced. higher utilization -> higher hourly operating profit -> margin to decrease prices -> unprofitable for new entrants -> barrier to entry Without an existing network, the (the considerable! $Bs) capital need to buy a fleet of autonomous vehicles is prohibitive for even a determined new entrant. (and so, as expected, the writer is wrong)