When we used to think about the future, we pictured flying cars and fancy new ways of transportation. Though we don’t have flying cars yet, self-driving and hybrid cars are a thing of the present. Major auto companies including Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, General Motors, and Toyota are researching and manufacturing “cars of the future” with autopilot and self-driving features. Are self-driving cars the future? Here are some of the pros and cons of self-driving automobiles.
Pros
1. No Drunk Driving
Probably one of the biggest considerations when it comes to autopiloting cars is the fact that computers can’t get drunk. Whether or not self-driving cars will cut down on drunk driving is debatable, but the fact that a robotic car can map out a route and drive an inebriated person home is a plus to some.
2. Accuracy & Safety
It’s estimated that over 85% of road accidents are caused by human error. Whether it be distracted driving while texting, drunk driving, aggressive driving, or falling asleep at the wheel, most accidents come from human mistakes. Self-driving cars could eliminate many of these errors, ultimately making vehicles safer.
3. Environmental Impact
Most self-driving car prototypes are also hybrid cars, meaning they will operate on electricity instead of fuel. This will be better for the environment by cutting down on emissions. Self-driving cars also drive more efficiently than regular cars. They maintain consistent speeds and cut down on the amount of power they need to move.
Cons
1. No Control
The biggest argument against self-driving cars is the fact that there is no human control. Can we trust a robot to completely keep us safe? Sometimes unexpected road conditions, including other vehicles and drivers, can cause a need for quick reaction. Though some argue that robotic cars will have precise reaction time, it’s not enough assurance for some traditional drivers to fully trust.
2. Loss of Jobs
If our cars drive us, it could negatively impact certain jobs. Rideshare services, taxi services, and even gas stations could lose jobs to robots. Proponents of self-driving cars argue that the manufacture and maintenance of electric cars will create more jobs, but it’s a good point to consider.
3. Hackers
When it comes to any type of computerized device, you risk information and operating systems being compromised by hackers and cybercriminals. Trusting your safety and personal information to a network in your automobile might cause issues. Though many factors of our lives are run by internet and cybersecurity, do we really trust it to be used in our cars yet?
Whether or not you support self-driving cars, there are many factors consumers need to think about before we jump on the bandwagon. As with anything new, there will be kinks to work out and a lot of trial and error, but if properly executed, self-driving cars could be the next best thing of the future! From all of us here at Quick-Set Auto Glass, drive safely out there!
