I've said before that the logical progression would be as follows...
First automated trains. This is the easiest to accomplish.
Next automated sea vessels. Big, wide open spaces.... plus we already use Harbor Pilots to handle the last mile(s).
After we gain confidence with the reliability and safety of trains and ships, we start automating inner-city busses. At least these vehicles run a very defined route, but dealing with weather conditions alone will present a major challenge.
THEN we start attempting to automate 'free range' cars, trucks, and busses. These present all the challenges as above, plus they don't stick to pre-defined routes. They also have to navigate private roads and surfaces like parking lots and driveways.
Seems stupid to attempt the most challenging automation first.
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