Telephones transformed quite readily into smartphones, while mechanical typewriters hung on for a while. However, autos are taking even longer and people are already wondering whether old-style car companies can survive. When will cars transform into computers too we wonder? That would be a good time to take stock of the old order.
When Will Cars Cease to be Owner Driven?
Automobiles were a defining moment in the first industrial revolution, because they freed drivers to travel where they wanted. They no longer had to rely on public transport, or horses that needed resting after ten miles.
This sense of authority may be behind our disinterest in going electric, or catching a bus to the shops. However, increasing urbanization and global warming are gathering around us, and forcing change. Yes, change is coming in the form of electric cars. The nature of this technology is ideal for Uber taxis and ride sharing too. When will cars become collective, not private assets, do you think? Will it be soon?
Do You Think Cars Are Computers Yet?
Merriam-Webster defines a computer as a programmable, usually electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data. Certainly, self-drive electric cars are already doing all three on the power of lithium batteries.
Even a basic gasoline car can start on a command from a smartphone. And display a variety of digital information on the control panel too. When will car manufacturers be forced to follow suit, we wonder. How much longer should we allow them to continue pumping out greenhouse gases?
Perhaps the biggest challenge we face is giving up the autonomy of a car that we exclusively possess. The average American auto weighs two tons. We know deep down it does not make sense to leave it idle for at least three quarters of every day.
When will cars running on gasoline become regarded as antisocial, perhaps we should ask instead. Because we know exclusively owning one is a vote in favor of global warming. We should not have to be told, to do the right thing, but the unfortunate reality is we often do..
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Preview Image: Enjoy Car in Turin, Italy
