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With a few notable exceptions, I prefer driving to taking the train. A combination of flexibility, lower costs and location convenience mean that my car is often the best alternative. However, I must concede that the big benefit of the train is that you can multitask. Even men can travel to their destination while also doing something else!
So imagine a car where the journey duration is not dead time. Where for periods you can sit back and read, prepare for a meeting, or do a crossword. It's like having your own driver, but not one that you have to make polite conversation with.
The latest breakthrough from Oxford University suggests that this dream isn't too far from becoming a reality. Utilising relatively cheap technology, the Oxford RobotCar UK can drive itself. Memorising regular journeys like the daily commute or the weekly supermarket shop.
The system works by producing a 3D image of the route using lasers attached to the front of the car and a camera mounted on the roof. The sensors map the route but also pick up unfamiliar objects such as pedestrians.
I have written on this subject before, in particular, highlighting a trial that Google has been working on for some time in America. The big difference with this latest research is that the technology is cheap. What this means is that it could easily be rolled into production vehicles without the costs being prohibitive to the end user.
If you have a look around, it should be no surprise that this type of vehicle is just around the corner. Many new cars contain navigation devices, take control to avoid skidding, warn you if there is a problem with the vehicle, even park themselves. A self driving vehicle is just the logical next step.
Although I write this piece with a level of aprehension. Self driving cars have clear advantages, particularly in removing the impact of driver error which of course causes accidents and injury. But I like driving, and the thought of relinquishing all control over my vehicle is not one that I relish.
However change is often good, so I will reserve judgement and wait to see what the manufacturers, and the market, can deliver in the years to come.
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