Final answer:
The biggest impact on on-demand transportation like Uber and Lyft would likely be Apple launching a network of driverless vehicles on demand. The taxicab industry may see economies of scale but must adapt to technology and environmental preferences. ICT's potential for positive environmental impact is significant through the use of electric vehicles and digital services.
Step-by-step explanation:
The strategy that is most likely to have a significant shaping impact on on-demand transportation providers like Uber and Lyft is Apple launching a global network of driverless cars, buses, and trucks on demand via a mobile app. This scenario entails a major tech company entering the transport sector with a potentially disruptive technology that directly competes with the core services provided by existing on-demand transport companies. Such innovation could lead to massive shifts in consumer behavior and industry standards, especially if the service is more efficient or cost-effective than current on-demand transport options.
The taxicab industry in large cities might indeed experience significant economies of scale due to factors such as centralized dispatch systems, shared resources, and brand recognition, which can reduce average costs as the scale of operations increases. However, this is contingent on the industry's ability to adapt to technological advances and consumer preferences, including the shift toward digital platforms and environmental considerations. Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has the potential to positively impact the environment by reducing dependency on fossil fuels and facilitating digital experiences that do not require extensive material consumption. This includes the trend towards vehicle sharing, product rental-reuse networks, and more efficient online shopping logistics that utilize electric delivery vehicles and renewable energy sources, such as solar power.