Cars of the future: Google shifts to new gears

Who hasn’t dreamt of a time when cars drive themselves and adjust themselves to fit all needs? In the days of The Jetsons and Back to the Future, these new technologies might have seemed to be something of the very distant future. But now, with the introduction of even tinier computers and even more efficient fuel technologies, even companies like Google have ventured into changing the future of driving.

Google’s self-driving car is not the only innovation in the industry, but it is by far the most tested and researched idea to date. In fact, several states have already legalized the use of these cars on the road, though only as long as a licensed driver is sitting behind the wheel. The cars, when programmed with knowledge of basic traffic rules and safety sensors, have the potential to reduce accidents, decrease commuting time and monitor fuel consumption in order to save energy. But, of course, the main advantage that many see in automated cars is how they relieve their drivers of responsibility. Just tell the car to take you to work or school, and then sit back and relax, right?

Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as it seems. The introduction of self-driving cars prompts other big questions: How else can we innovate cars to actually respond to their drivers? What new safety features can we build into these vehicles to decrease or even prevent accidents? And finally, are these technologies really safe?

Sophomore Steven Doria suggests that while many can see the social and environmental benefits of smarter cars, there is also a general misunderstanding of their safety and consequently, their true advantages.

“Google’s smart car has definitely been in its share of accidents,” Doria said. “But versus the atrocities that we already have, it’s statistically better. It shouldn’t be a question of if these cars will be the thing of the future, it’s when people will begin to trust this tech.”

The automotive industry is also aiming to cater to its drivers’ needs and desires. The same technologies that could potentially help prevent accidents actually already appear in many modern vehicles. Mini touchscreen computers, dubbed “infotainment”, provide music recommendations, route suggestions and even play Netflix movies.

The general aim is to create a driving experience that is for, by and about the driver.

Sophomore Alissa Chiang said that she would love to own a car that plays music just for her, but she doubts the practicality of these cars in cities like her hometown of São Paulo, Brazil. “Smart cars are definitely the future, but they haven’t really been tested in larger cities,” Chiang said. “Public transportation is definitely a better option for many people because of its reliability and price.”

Of course, there is also the problem of some being reluctant to give up the classic experience of being behind the wheel.

“Future cars could take away the freedom and pleasure of driving,” Chiang said. “It’s possible that we’ll miss having cars that we can drive and really control.”