Google is to start building its own self-driving cars

[Bosonic]

Last edited Wed May 28, 2014, 03:04 PM - Edit history (1)

Source: BBC

Google is to start building its own self-driving cars, rather than modifying vehicles built by other manufacturers.

The car will have a stop-go button but no controls, steering wheel or pedals.

Pictures of the Google vehicle show it looks like a city car with a "friendly" face, designed to make it seem non-threatening and help people accept self-driving technology.

Co-founder Sergey Brin revealed the plans at a conference in California. "We're really excited about this vehicle - it's something that will allow us to really push the capabilities of self driving technology, and understand the limitations," said Chris Urmson, director of the company's self-driving project. He added that the cars had the ability to "improve people's lives by transforming mobility".

Read more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-27587558

---

[Helen Borg]

1. With Intel agencies having their hands everywhere...

It is difficult to trust a self-driving car produced by one of the partners in the mass surveillance operations...

[Nitram]

2. A land drone!

[Octafish]

3. Trurl and Klaupacius await.

http://english.lem.pl/home/bookshelf/how-the-word-was-saved

[Javaman]

4. why does it have seats? nt

[onehandle]

5. ...and integrate annoying, distracting ads on every surface. nt

[seabeckind]

6. Meh...call me when it'll go to the grocery for me n/t

[JohnnyRingo]

7. Some cars are so cute, they bring a smile to my face.

The 1960 Bugeye Sprite and '58 BMW Isetta for two examples, but that car just makes me laugh out loud. Why do the new practical vehicles like the Smart Car have to be so homely? I imagine that car would have to drive it's self because it's impossible to drive while wearing clown shoes.

I think it may be disconcerting to get in a Google self driving car and press the starter button that says "I'm Feeling Lucky".

[Kablooie]

8. It looks like its on drugs.

[Turbineguy]

9. This will bring about the collapse of civilization as we know it

in Florida. What will all those terrible drivers do?