I'd say Google at least wants self driving car legislation, and could later go as far as saying they might need it too. (...where "might need" > want >>> like).

The company has very closely aligned its image with this technology, and indeed I'd say it currently is one of those moonshots that they are betting heavily on. Which of course factors into markets gauging their P/E where it currently sits.

rent-out-your-apartment* litigation. Afaik the only case where people have issues with AirBNB is in buildings with shared entrances/hallways.

Absolutely not the case.

Here in Australia city and state hospitality organisations are very vocal in opposition to airbnb. The usual argument is why should they be paying to meet licensing/safety requirements when airbnb hosts can rent out their home without regulation. I'd guess 90%+ of these premises are standalone homes.

In my city the local council just announced plans to limit a property to 42 nights of airbnb per year, or face significant fines. Not sure it'll stick.

Thanks, didn't know that. Speaking from my own experience living in cities like Philly and NYC.

There are usually zoning issues that come into play when you run a business from a residential property.