The Toyota Prius merged onto crowded Highway 1 between San Francisco and Los Angeles, drives the speed limit, then exits a few miles later.  Afterwards, the car drives through the traffic-clogged streets of Mountain View, California, before coming to rest in the parking lot of Google’s headquarters.  It’s not a commuter; it’s a test subject.  The car is one of six self-driving cars being tested by Google in their latest bid to keep ahead of the curve.

The cars drive themselves using a GPS system and sensor kit that detects cars around them, allowing the vehicle to navigate traffic and cruise at the speed limit.  The driver can take control again by pushing a red button, turning the steering wheel, or tapping the brake; however, it is unlikely that the human would need to pay much attention, as the car detects potential hazards like cross-walks and people stopping short in front of you. Finally, a self-driving car for the civilian market!

Is it possible that, in my lifespan, I’ll get that robot car I’ve always wanted?  Well, perhaps.  It won’t turn into a giant killer machine, but it will allow me to sleep through my drive to work.

Tags: Google, Google test-driving robot cars, self-driving cars, Google self-driving cars, Highway 1, Toyota Prius, GPS navigation, autonomous cars, Mountain View, California, unusual vehicles, custom cars

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