Self-Driving Cars: Where Are they Headed?
June 30th, 2015 by Eli P
If you think self-driving cars are the stuff of science fiction, think again. They’re already here, with companies like Audi, Tesla and even Google successfully testing prototypes.
Obviously, self-driving cars will differ in many ways from those currently on the road. But it’s the technology built into them that will make the biggest difference. Unlike today’s cars, self-driving cars will be:
Alert. Proximity sensors will not only detect the proximity of other cars, they’ll also notice when you get close to the vehicle. As you approach your car, it will automatically begin prepping for your drive based on data from your personal communication devices.
Connected. Your car will wirelessly connect with all your in-home and mobile devices. Based on email, calendar and text messages, it will know where you need to go and when you need to get there. It will also respond to voice commands, such as, “Take me home” or “Drive to the mall.”
Conversational. Self-driving cars will constantly talk to each other. Your car’s computer will link up with those of other cars heading in the same direction to create safe driving distances, avoid traffic congestion, and minimize fuel use and drive times.
Advanced. With so much to pay attention to, self-driving cars will carry the latest in motion and detection technologies, including multiple radars, cameras, and light detection and ranging units.
Different. Cars that drive themselves will look very different – inside and out. Bigger windows. Roomier interiors. Chairs that swivel. Interactive center consoles that facilitate working, reading, and playing rather than driving.
We’re still a long way from everyone getting where they need to go in a “robo car.” But within 10 years, we’ll likely see automobiles that fully drive themselves with little or no guidance from the people inside them.
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