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New Car Era
Google is embarking on an exciting journey by creating its own self-driving cars instead of modifying existing models. these innovative vehicles will feature a simple stop-go button, eliminating conventional controls like steering wheels and pedals. Designed to be approachable, the car has a pleasant appearance aimed at easing public acceptance of autonomous technology.
Innovative Design Features
- Unique Appearance: The Google car resembles a city vehicle with no conventional bonnet and wheels positioned at the corners.
- Safety First: It will seat two passengers, run on electricity, and initially be limited to 25 mph for safety.
- Advanced Technology: Equipped with laser sensors and cameras,it relies on specially designed road maps for navigation.
The design prioritizes pedestrian safety with soft materials replacing traditional bumpers. Early prototypes will include manual controls for testing purposes but aim to remove them as confidence in the technology grows.
Future Prospects
Google plans to build around 200 self-driving cars in Detroit as part of their testing initiative. With over 700,000 miles driven autonomously already logged, they are now tackling complex urban environments.Advocates believe these vehicles could significantly enhance road safety by reducing accidents caused by human error. However, experts warn that reliance on automation may lead people to forget essential driving skills needed in emergencies.
Final Thoughts
As Google pushes forward into this new automotive frontier, the potential benefits of self-driving cars are immense but come with challenges that need careful consideration.
Reference
- BBC News – Google unveils plans for self-driving car
- BBC Radio – Frontiers: The potential of driverless cars