TECHNOLOGY
Automation is not just about the vehicles, says new report
A new report recommends a cautious approach to introducing autonomous vehicles
Automated vehicles promise more safety by eliminating crashes linked to human error. But claims that self-driving cars could avoid 90% of road deaths by eliminating these errors are untested, says a new report by the International Transport Forum.Shared responsibility between robot and human drivers can, in fact, lead to more complex driving decisions. The unintended consequences might make driving less safe, not more. In situations where humans take over control from robots, more crashes might occur among "average" drivers who normally do not take risks.Full automation may reduce the number of severe crashes significantly. Yet with partially automated systems, humans retain an advantage in many contexts. Overcoming this gap requires multiple sensors and connectivity with infrastructure.Such fully automated and connected cars are vulnerable to cybersecurity risks, however. "The avoidance of crashes should never depend on access to shared external communication channels alone", the r...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.