[quote=ltsdd]The potential of malfunction software/hardware and thus crashes and the liability of trillion $$$ lawsuits that followed would make the automakers think twice about making self-driving cars available to the masses. I think the risk/liability trumps the cool factor.[/quote]

The potential of human error already greatly exceeds that for software/hardware error. Tell me which is more dangerous:

• a fully tested automated system
• a bunch of sexting teenagers, drunken post-party 20-somethings, vision-impaired slow-reacting seniors, sleepy over-worked parents of 4, and roid-raging lifted truck bros

I think what we’ll see happen is that insurance costs for automated cars will be MUCH lower than that of error-prone human drivers, so manufacturers will cover those costs or roll them into the price of the cars.

We’ll probably see automation take over trucking way before it takes over commuting. The cost savings are huge: Don’t need to pay drivers, they can drive 24×7, and can “chain” up like a train, greatly improving fuel efficiency via drafting. You’re foolish if you don’t think shipping companies are already researching/testing this.