Autonomous vehicles are one of the most revolutionary concepts at present, opening the doors for a new world. An unknown era with limitless possibilities within the constraints of limiting the possibilities.
However, with all the advantages and beneficial opportunities, is it possible for autonomous vehicles to transcend the obstacles of exploring an unknown concept? Even though technology has always been an evolutionary tool to develop into a modern world or create new ways of comfort, But, and yet, we cannot avoid the cons that have been presented with each such technological evolution.
And more than that, handling the consequences practically has become a major subject for regulations and policymakers.
Things that can go wrong with autonomous vehicles are:
- Malfunctioning technology in autonomous vehicles is a major concern due to its reliance on a complex system of sensors, software, and hardware. If any major system malfunctions or fails, it could lead to accidents or other safety issues.
- Hacking and cybersecurity threats are major concerns with any new technology. Autonomous vehicles are vulnerable to being hacked or to other cyber attacks that could compromise passenger safety, leading to unrepairable fatalities.
- The governing regulations are unclear for autonomous vehicles, which could lead to confusion and safety concerns among drivers, passengers, and other road users.
- Facing adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or fog is questionable. An autonomous vehicle relies completely on sensors and cameras for navigating the road, which can hinder safety issues. The technology needs to be modernized enough to sustain the adverse weather conditions.
- Most autonomous vehicles are trained with a set of maps of pre-programmed roads, but what about unknown territories, rough terrain, or construction zones with temporary traffic patterns?
- Who is going to be liable for any sort of accident, even though AVs are meant to reduce the accidents happening on the road, and how do you address an unknown situation? Who should be liable for judiciary procedures, and who should handle the insurance issues?
Even though we get to see an autonomous vehicle with technology beyond any present concepts, is it strong enough to sustain rough situations? The rough roads or even the rough construction. The rough mountain terrain, or what about being stuck in the middle of the road out of nowhere?
Even though the present vehicle provides no solutions to being stuck in the middle of nowhere, the cost is not so high to experience such discomfort. Is the kind of money invested in the development of such AVs worth it in the end?
Do we really need AVs at present for practical reasons? Or will it just become a luxurious adventure? As the trend follows, an invisible hand in the technological market is reshaping society with its modern concept, but are they not raising the expectations of more needs rather than addressing the real issues?
With so much money being spent on such a concept, we rarely get to see the use of such products for any non-profit cause.