The automotive industry has been going through a number of changes in recent years. For example, while we've seen self-driving cars become a reality, we're also witnessing the transition from physical driving to ride sharing, which requires an entirely new model of transportation.
While we know that these innovations are inevitable, the specific timeline for the adoption of these new technologies remains uncertain. That's why this post will focus on four key areas that are currently being studied or implemented by different automakers, as well as their expected impact on the future of transportation.
First, let's take a look at some of the advancements already made within the field of self-driving technology.
Advanced Vision and Sensors
Vision is becoming an increasingly important element in autonomous systems. With improved sensors, more sophisticated computer vision software, and advanced artificial intelligence, self-driving cars will be able to see and interpret more about the world around them. This will lead to safer, more efficient vehicles.
High-Speed Networks and Cloud Computing
Connectivity is another area where automakers are making significant strides towards self-driving technologies. Today, most of our infrastructure for mobile communication is designed for voice over internet protocol. However, new standards such as 5G are promising to double the speed of current network connections, which is essential for safe, smooth driving.
Wireless Charging
Wireless charging seems to be the most disruptive technology of the near future. It's not only more convenient than traditional plug connectors, but it's also environmentally friendly. By removing the need for long, tedious charging cords, automakers can remove much of the environmental impact from electric vehicle ownership.
Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) Communications
The last element of self-driving technology is V2V and V2I communication, which involves cars talking directly to each other, as well as infrastructure components. These two innovations are essential for a car's navigation system and communication between cars.
While automakers have started studying and implementing these elements of the future of transportation, they still face challenges in terms of their practicality and safety. These challenges are largely due to legal and political barriers.
For example, the European Union is working towards developing a unified regulatory framework for the entire EU, as opposed to having each nation decide their own laws. They also want to establish a set of requirements that cars must meet in order to use autonomous systems.
The United States has yet to pass any form of legislation surrounding self-driving cars. While some states, such as California, have passed their own regulations, the federal government still has a lot of work to do.
In terms of safety, the technology behind autonomous systems is still far from perfect. For example, there have been numerous fatal accidents involving self-driving cars and autonomous driving prototypes.
This doesn't mean that these vehicles will never be safe, it just means that they're not there yet. This uncertainty may keep consumers from purchasing them for years to come.
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