Google Driverless Cars Get Boost in California

[jaijai]

Originally Posted by dclamb3

I think a large population of our older or disabled drivers could use technology like this.

That's true.
Although i doubt they will be the "privileged" ones who will benefit, ie; be able to afford, such a car.
It will be another silly toy for people who have money to waste.

[dclamb3]

Originally Posted by jaijai

That's true.
Although i doubt they will be the "privileged" ones who will benefit, ie; be able to afford, such a car.
It will be another silly toy for people who have money to waste.

I think you're right, but only in the beginning. Most technology seems to initially be adopted by people with large disposable incomes, the tech. eventually comes down in price, and the rest of us can finally afford it, and then those who need it, have it (which is good, because by then it's out of it's trial run with the first people who embraced it and most of the kinks are worked out). I remember when we couldn't afford a VCR. Now you can't give one away.

[gone down south]

Originally Posted by jaijai

why would anyone want or need a car that drives itself?
people are so intelligent but even more stupid.

Because people do a very poor job of driving themselves. An automated car won't drive at unsafe speeds, tailgate, forget to check it's blindspot before changing lanes, have 2 drinks before starting out.....

[gone down south]

Originally Posted by jaijai

That's true.
Although i doubt they will be the "privileged" ones who will benefit, ie; be able to afford, such a car.
It will be another silly toy for people who have money to waste.

Every technological advance was first expensive and only in high-end cars, then eventually became standard. That's just the way it works.

[AkronAlan]

Originally Posted by gone down south

Because people do a very poor job of driving themselves. An automated car won't drive at unsafe speeds, tailgate, forget to check it's blindspot before changing lanes, have 2 drinks before starting out.....

+1. And engage in road rage, fall asleep at the wheel, texting while driving...

[jw2]

There has been an amazing amount of innovation in the last 20 years. With innovations there are dreamers and naysayers.

[Malloric]

Originally Posted by jaijai

why would anyone want or need a car that drives itself?
people are so intelligent but even more stupid.

One of, I think the first, "beta testers" is a guy who is retired and functionally blind. I wouldn't mind it. That's probably an extra 10 hours a week I could use on paper work just going to and from jobs.