Ever since Henry Ford’s first dream of producing an affordable and affordable vehicle became a reality, living for innovation hasn’t come this close (in the auto industry). Recent advances in technology have allowed for a new era that may be in the works. I am referring to the autonomous car, which is, in other words, a car that does not need a driver. It may sound a bit far-fetched, but engineers have come up with a way to make it possible. Most people don’t realize it, but we’ve had this technology for quite some time. Level 1 autonomous driving can be found in most vehicles on the road, this is known as cruise control. The highest level (4) is a fully automated vehicle that does not require any human interaction to drive and maneuver through traffic. Google currently has two vehicles that launched in early 2014; however, during the first year a person must be present inside the vehicle. An airplane-like black box should be installed to track what happened before and after an incident (in case one of these cars is in a collision). Amazon, Mercedes, and a host of other companies have joined the race for automation. Keep in mind that these companies have different technologies and ideas for the future.
People ask if the cars are going to be bought as they are now, or if a service will be provided by pickup delivery. We don’t know (because it is still too early). The real question is whether the technology will eventually become the American standard. Well, we don’t know, but we do know that the American willingness to drive on an open road with the pedal on the ground can never be eliminated. Our tardiness, arrogance, and willingness to be independent are the factors that will eventually determine how this technology should operate. For now we can only wait and see how well the vehicles work, and observe the reactions of those around us. Which side of the debate are you on? Do you care if your vehicle drives you and not the other way around? Do you trust a computer-automated vehicle with you and your loved ones inside? Do you think it will end the devastation of traffic in major cities like Los Angeles or New York? Let us know what you think?
