Car dependence in research: navigating its contemporary relevance

The term “car dependence” is frequently used in literature addressing issues such as high car use, car ownership, urban sprawl, land use, and built environment characteristics. At first glance, the term “car dependence” may seem self-explanatory, generally referring to a reliance on cars. However, on closer inspection, car dependence is a complex and elusive concept. This paper seeks to critically and comprehensively deconstruct the concept of car dependence. Specifically, it examines the extent to which the literature has engaged with the “dependence” aspect of car dependence, and how this engagement has shaped our understanding of the term. The review revealed a spectrum of approaches. These ranged from a minimal engagement – where car dependence is simply equated with car use – to more comprehensive analyses that explore how dependence is produced and reproduced at the levels of land use, households, practices, and is perpetuated through policy decisions. The paper proposes four key issues that deserve further exploration and advocates for a “back to basics’, focusing on the concept of “dependence” itself and examining it in greater depth. By doing so, we can uncover new and exciting research avenues. It also prompts us to consider the underlying rationale: are we aiming merely to reduce car use, or are we seeking to genuinely challenge the car’s hegemony, its dominance, and its role at both societal and political levels?