[rbbydotdev]

I’m imagining these vehicles on a sort of track, this way if the automation fails, it can still be guided. Also, the track could even potentially deliver power. The vehicle can be any number of connected pods.

[seanhunter]

I don't understand the sarcasm. Driverless trains for mass transit are in operation in lots of places around the world and have been for some time (eg the Docklands light railway in London) https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/dlr/

Driverless personal transportation is the unsolved problem.

[badc0ffee]

Weirdly, DLR trains still have an attendant onboard. A better example of a fully centrally operated train would be something like the SkyTrain lines in Vancouver.

[estimator7292]

The point is that we don't have mass transit in most places in the US. Trains and light rail are indisputably better for everyone but we're betting the entire country on yet more cars.

[boredpudding]

Maybe even have multiple people in each pod, and on the set track, have common stops where people are likely to get on/off.

[dyauspitr]

Then have the track go to each persons doorstep. Also make sure the pod shows up within 5 minutes at your doorstep when you hail it from your phone. Each pod should be private and airconditioned. Each pod should also lay its own track when driving to remote locations.

[tim333]

They actually invented something like that called a train around 1804 and very soon when they've developed it a bit more it will solve all our traffic problems.

[lysace]

Because trains are famously awesome for the last mile(s)?

[nilamo]

It's a tongue-in-cheek description of how buses and trams work. ie: It's not a new idea, we just tacked "driverless" onto it.

[chpatrick]

I think the idea is that they could go full speed in sync, then afterwards they could still take you to your doorstep.

[IsTom]

Trams are pretty ok

[MisterTea]

Power could be delivered by overhead catenary wire. Battery and/or ultra caps could handle if it has to go off wire.

[mlsu]

I agree. The only wrinkle is that it's impractical to build a train line from my house to the train station.

[rayiner]

Anything that isn’t point to point transit, or requires interacting with the public, is a non-starter for most people in the developed world.

Even in Japan, half of commutes are by car and that number has been growing.

[CyberDildonics]

Not sure where you are getting this information. Where there are trains, people take the trains far more.

In Tokyo, the vast majority of passengers rely on the extensive and efficient train system, which is often considered the best in the world. Cars are less commonly used due to high parking costs, traffic congestion, and the convenience of public transportation options like trains and subways.

Transportation Options in Tokyo Train Passengers

    Rail Network: Tokyo has the most extensive urban railway network in the world, with 40 million passengers daily.
    Frequency: Trains run every two to three minutes during rush hours, ensuring minimal wait times.
    Accessibility: Major stations are equipped with elevators and clear signage in multiple languages, making it easy for tourists to navigate.

Car Usage

    Driving Conditions: Driving in Tokyo can be challenging due to narrow roads, heavy traffic, and limited parking availability.
    Parking Costs: Finding parking can be difficult and expensive, with many areas lacking sufficient parking lots.
    Rental Considerations: Renting a car may incur additional costs such as tolls and drop-off fees, especially if returning the car to a different location.*

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transport_in_Greater_Tokyo

[FuriouslyAdrift]

You just re-invented trollies

[05]

If automation fails on a track, there are many people dead and toxic chemicals spilled everywhere - just look at US freight accidents. With orders of magnitude more mass, 3x less friction than tire/asphalt and no way to steer, many avoidable accidents are now also fatal. Now you need grade separation so this whole thing isn't compatible with pedestrians and bikes. But sure, keep posting this tired joke.