Running the Numbers on Self-Driving Cars

It is practically a technology pastime to dream about the potential of self-driving cars. Less time in traffic, safer more efficient driving and less environmental impact are all key topics in the dreamscape. The conversation is changing, however and this is a good thing. As technologists we are thrilled that the dialogue is shifting from the pie-in-the-sky possibilities to the projected hard numbers of self-driving technology implementation. We understand that this is the only way to truly weigh the possibilities and get a clear view of what we face.

Self-Driving Cars Could Cut Greenhouse Gas Pollution, a recent article from Scientific American and Environment and Engineering Publishing, delves into a study from the Intelligent Transportation Society of America (TSI). The report makes projections on oil consumption and greenhouse emissions based on future self-driving technology implementation over the next 10 years. The study is predicting a two to four percent reduction in oil consumption and the related greenhouse gasses. The article also highlights government steps toward implementation and some recent innovations. The forum members started a spirited debate on the article that centers on the complexity the system creates versus sticking with older technologies. Let us know what you think.

Contributed by Freescale Staff