[quote=afx114][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.[/quote]

I hear what you’re saying. The point I was trying to make is that there is a lot of risks that the automakers have to assume to integrate such technologies into vehicles. It may be safer, but all it takes is a few crashes due malfunctions or system reboots for the lawyers to come knocking. Pretty much it’s carte blanche for lawsuits against the automakers for every fender bender that is to occur. Look at how much Toyota had to pay to settle the so-called sudden-acceleration cases. Now, imagine what’s the liability will be if you’re advertising and selling autopilot cars and they involved in crashes.