A method for optimizing climate control in an autonomous vehicle. The method includes receiving a ride request for an autonomous vehicle from a customer. A desired temperature for an interior of the autonomous vehicle may be determined based on the ride request. The current temperature of the vehicle interior may then be adjusted such that the current temperature substantially matches the desired temperature when the autonomous vehicle reaches the customer. The temperature of the vehicle interior may be allowed to deviate from the desired temperature, within a pre-determined temperature deviation range, when the autonomous vehicle is unoccupied. A corresponding system and computer program product are also disclosed and claimed herein.