Asleep At The Wheel? Sure, Why Not.
Autonomous vehicles—does this point to the end of cursing at the guy who just cut you off, flipping the bird at other drivers who refuse to let you safely merge? And so will this mother-of-all speed bumps mean an end to those irritating back seat drivers? Sheer highway heaven! Autonomous vehicles are described as being fully aware and capable of navigating their surroundings without the need of a human driver.
Futurist entrepreneur Elon Musk claims he will have auto-cars ready by the end of the year with a “robotaxi” version to following in 2020. Musk envisions current and prospective Tesla auto-cars dropping their owners off to work and then joining the Tesla fleet as an earning robo-taxi, when not personally required.
Of course Tesla is not alone in this race for the streets. Google-developed Waymo, truly a trail blazer in the industry, already has a limited taxi program operating in Phoenix, Arizona, and plans to increase the number of autonomous vehicles (without safety driver) available to its passengers. In the race, as well, are the car-for-hire giants Uber and Lyft. You can follow the progress of these industry leaders, as well as new contenders entering the market place.
As is the case with most new technology, there have been some unfortunate accidents and so research and development continues. And while there will be bumps in the road, potential customers will continue to follow important consumer updates as the industry strives to manufacture the safest and efficient vehicle possible.
What would R2D2 and Luke Skywalker Say? Taking a drive will never be the same.