Millions of US dollars have been invested in developing intelligent automotive vehicles that can undertake the entire driving task without the involvement of a human driver. However, we cannot say that self-driving cars could make it to full self-driving capabilities up to this time, though many have already been released with staggering ADASs.
Many believe it could take years to start seeing AVs with full self-driving capabilities dominating the country’s roads, and many believe it to be a matter of ‘when’ rather than of ‘if.’
This article addresses several critical questions about self-driving cars, including those that gauge their safety, capabilities, benefits, and potential risks. It also introduces the best self-driving cars of 2023 and highlights the best method for shipping these sensitive cars.
Are Self-Driving Cars Safe?
While there is still a feeling of uncertainty about the effectiveness and safety of self-driving cars, AV manufacturers always stress that self-driving cars can be way safer than traditional vehicles. They assume self-driving cars will put an end to human-made errors that studies have proved to be the major contributor to most fatal road accidents.
Driverless cars rely on advanced technology and smart systems that enable them to react to current driving conditions and even predict upcoming situations, which humans can never do. Still, concerns about the reliability of this technology persist and how likely AV systems are prone to mess up.
How Do Self-Driving Cars Work?
Combining existing autonomous driver assistant systems (ADAS) with extra software and sensors, self-driving cars promise an unprecedented commuting phase with maximum comfort and convenience.
Driverless cars employ sensors, actuators, complex algorithms, machine learning systems, and powerful processors to execute software and operate independently. They drive themselves through a computerized control of steering, accelerating, and braking, made possible by tying these systems together using software.
Furthermore, AV sensors, a combination of cameras, radars, and lidars, allow them to map adjacent features, spot road edges and lane markings, read signs and traffic lines, and identify pedestrians. The way these systems work together accounts for error-free driving that outperforms human drivers.
Self-Driving Cars’ Benefits and Risks
Self-driving cars deliver numerous benefits for drivers and other road users. They even benefit the environment if taken full advantage of. The major benefits autonomous vehicles bring with them are:
- Preventing human errors during driving that can lead to life-threatening accidents.
- Reducing traffic congestion through their advanced communication systems that allow them to intelligently interact with each other and the road infrastructure for smarter use of streets and efficient road occupancy.
- Reducing fuel costs and decreasing harmful greenhouse gas emissions produced into the atmosphere since they operate more efficiently than regular cars.
Aside from these benefits, autonomous vehicles still involve some potential risks, though manufacturers are working hard on developing these cars and the technology they are based on. Potential risks of self-driving cars are mainly:
- Cyberattacks and ransom risks come atop potential risks when handing over utter rein to technology and software. Potential cyberattack risks include hacking into an AV’s software, sensors, or communication systems, which can cause it to make mistakes or even crash. However, self-driving car developers certainly considered such risks and are taking measures that efficiently address such issues.
- The unpredictable future of autonomous vehicles creates some uncertainties about their social, economic, and environmental impact. They also raise concerns about future driving behaviors when these vehicles take over the country’s roads.
Best Self-Driving Cars in 2023
Though fully autonomous cars have not been officially released yet, many impressive vehicles with ADASs are running on the roads now. As for the top self-driving cars in 2023, they are:
Audi A8
Audi A8 has bolstered the brand’s reputation, being among the best self-driving cars ever released. The vehicle combines top technology and can use SAE level 3 driving assistance.
Infiniti QX50
The Infiniti QX50 is an SAE level 1 self-driving car with a ProPilot assistant system, allowing the vehicle to change its speed and keep it within the lane. It provides automatic braking, steering, and acceleration, with a feature to detect road hazards ahead of the vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz EQS
The Mercedes-Benz EQS features the world’s first approved SAE level 3 driving system, Drive Pilot. The car can take over, but drivers must stay alert and responsive. It is also capable of automated parking.
Shipping Self-Driving Cars
While autonomous vehicles can drive themselves to any destination, they still need to be shipped following maximum safety standards, which only professional car shippers can provide. Shipping such valuable and sensitive cars requires considering the following:
The Car Shipper’s Expertise and Experience
Finding a car shipper with adequate experience shipping high-end cars, preferably autonomous vehicles, must be a top priority. This is to set your mind at ease, knowing they can follow the latest regulations and safety protocols and have efficient equipment and resources for shipping.
AVs’ Safety and Security
Self-driving cars have various sensors and cameras sensitive to shock and vibration. Specialized car shipping companies use dedicated containers and equipment to protect these delicate components during transport. They also have comprehensive insurance policies that cover the vehicle in case of any damage or loss.
Tempus Logix is a professional and experienced car shipping company in the United States with over eight years of shipping all vehicle types nationwide. The company has a proven track record of safely delivering 90,000+ cars.
Conclusion
Sooner or later, autonomous vehicles will dominate the streets and reshape different aspects of our lives due to the endless possibilities they create. With the constantly evolving technology, autonomous vehicles will provide even more enticing features.
Most importantly, the safest and most reliable method to ship these cars would always be hiring a professional car shipper who will help protect them from wear and tear and keep them in pristine condition.