Atlanta, Georgia
One of the highlights during a visit to Atlanta this week was getting a glimpse of the future. As I was crossing the street I noticed a dome on the roof of a vehicle. Curious as I was I took a closer look and realized it was a self driving car. In the past, I would have quickly assumed I was part of a prank.
The roof mounted sensor pod contains radar, cameras, and LiDAR (Light detection and ranging). Basically the spinning dome acts as the eyes and brain of the car.
The vehicles are fun to watch. They stop for lights, proceed when the light changes, and even greets the customers. The program operated by Waymo and Uber is testing in a sixty five square mile zone including the Buckhead area. The commercial “robotaxi” was launched in 2025. It is estimated that between fifty and one hundred are in operation with plans to add hundred more. At this time they must be hailed from the Uber app.
Alice DeForest
Enjoying my retirement plan of gallivanting from one place to another. I’m inviting you to tag along to explore Coastal Georgia, South Carolina and beyond.