Autonomous vehicles (self-driving cars or AVs) powered by batteries have become an interesting and intriguing topic in the literature recently. People will probably view these cars with a degree of fear; can they be safe and reliable? Surprisingly, the technology to monitor and react to changing road conditions is available and continues to improve. Some companies have produced working prototypes of these vehicles. Truck manufacturers have been especially interested in these modes of transportation as they can run 24/7 without a driver; the economics are staggering.
Assuming technical issues are resolved, the wholesale adoption of AVs can have positive outcomes. (QuantumScape claims to have resolved limitations with its lithium metal battery that provides fast charging that can last for 450 miles.) These vehicles would be expected to follow all road regulations like speed limits and rights of way. A large reduction in accidents could result. The cost of insurance should recede. Maintenance costs should decline dramatically as AVs have fewer moving parts and do not require oil changes. The need for a driving license may become unnecessary. Stoplights would no longer be needed as all vehicles would be aware of each other's location and any road obstacles, including pedestrians, and adjust speed and maneuver accordingly. Also, adjustments would be made according to changing weather conditions. Passing other vehicles would not be allowed except where obstacles are blocking the road. Traffic flow would become optimized automatically. Traffic tie-ups would be minimized. The problem of "driving under the influence" would be negated. Of course, all of these positives assume that the driver remains absent from the control of his vehicle. A common theme would be "sit back and let your car do the driving." Another advantage would be a large reduction in polluting carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as all AVs are ultimately expected to be battery-powered.
Some authorities even foresee an era of Shared Autonomous Vehicles (SAVs) where everyone has access to transportation. Car ownership is no longer required. The need for taxis would be eliminated. Simply hale an empty AV or arrange for one to pick you up at your current location. Payment would be provided by one's credit card. Voice input would provide the trip destination desired. Rides can be private or shared with others. Autonomous buses would be available for group transportation. Autonomous trucks will proliferate. Some individuals may still prefer ownership with the option to share their vehicle for a price charged to those seeking a ride. SAVs have the potential to reduce traffic as they will only operate for specified trips. For example, one SAV could make several trips for say ten different passengers over a given day. Otherwise, these same 10 people would place up to TEN autos on the road if SAVs were not available. The need for public parking lots and garages will decline.
The adoption of AVs would have to overcome a number of negatives to be successful. First, it may take some time for people to have confidence in their safety and reliability. Secondly, many drivers may be reluctant to give up control of their car as they take a certain amount of pride in driving their vehicle or prefer to drive it differently than that prescribed autonomously. Another concern is the recharging of batteries; can this be done automatically at a remote charging station when needed? A system must be in place to thwart theft of SAVs like remote disabling of the vehicle. Finally, the transition to AVs may be complicated when both AVs and driver-controlled vehicles share the road. For example, some drivers may become annoyed when it is following an SAV driving at or below the speed limit.
Transitioning to AVs is conjectural at present as it represents a profound change in our mode of transportation similar to the transition from the horse and buggy to motorized vehicles. But if AVs do dominate the transportation industry, they will have a major impact on all levels of our society. What is your opinion? Your comments are welcome.
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