It is a terrifying and not uncommon sight where I live: a car heading down the street, with nobody behind the wheel. Has the handbrake broken? Or the car’s electronic system been activated by cyber attackers, intent on eliminating us one at a time?
Although there have been a few instances of brakes failing, sending cars hurtling into a wall, usually the answer is more mundane: the driver is tiny.
If viewed side-on there would be the reassuring sight of two hands gripping the wheel, possibly white-knuckled, as he or she navigates their way, chin raised as if to keep their head above water. With one particular driver, only the glint of sun on her spectacles indicates a human presence.
Soon, however, according to industry experts, we might need to get used to seeing vehicles with no-one at the controls.
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In his recent role as guest editor of the Today programme, James May, who is to cars what Nigella is to cholesterol, spoke to Mark Harper, UK minister for transport, about the advent of self-driving cars.
Harper explained that in light of legislation which he expects will pass through parliament by the end of this year, “Probably by as early as 2026, people will start seeing some elements of these cars that have full self-driving capabilities being rolled out.”
By this date, he indicated, it was probable that those behind the wheel would not be legally obliged to keep their eyes on the road. So, as they soon hurtle down such roads as are approved for autonomous vehicles........