An automated car can move from one point to another on a lane, without the need for a driver. It needs the following:
1. A dedicated lane, preferably elevated. The lane can be of smaller width than a light rail system, as the automated car is smaller than a train that carries many more passengers.
2. Sensors to detect the distance to a car or object in front. This allows the brake to be applied to slow down or stop the car and avoid collision.
3. A computer system in the car to input the destination stop and to guide the car directly to the destination. The car is able to its location as it travels along the lane.
4. A by-way at each stop for the car to use, so that it does not obstruct the cars that are bypassing the stop.
5. The cars should be electrically operated. Batteries can be changed when it is more than 80% consumed. The car can automatically go to the battery changing station when it reaches this point.
I see such a system being developed and deployed within 10 years.
A knowledgeable person told me that a fully charged battery can drive the electric car over 120 km. This requires the battery to be recharged daily.
ReplyDeleteA fully tank can drive the car for about 4 times the distance.
The inconvenience of recharging the battery will make the electric car not feasible as a replacement for the normal car.
If the electric car is used in an automated model, the disadvantage of replacing the battery is removed. The automated car can go to the battery station daily to have the battery replaced within 5 minutes.