Summary Readers Response Draft #3

Ohnsman (2013) states Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, an advanced autopilot driver-assistance enhanced with automation for navigating roads and enabling driverless parking. They opt that autopilot has proven beneficial in aviation and should similarly be adopted in automobiles for improved safety and efficiency.

Vehicle automation is evolving through six levels, aiming for full autonomy. Synopsys (n.d.) states the progression from Level 0, with no automation, to Level 5, where vehicles operate without human input. Key developments include adaptive cruise control at Level 1 and semi-automated driving at Level 2, leading up to complete autonomy at Level 5. The article also states that the gradual advancement signifies the automotive industry's effort to minimize human intervention, thereby enhancing safety and efficiency. Achieving Level 5 autonomy represents a major shift in transportation, aligned with technological innovation, showcasing the future of vehicular travel.

Tesla post-September 2014 vehicles highlight significant advancements in automotive technologies, emphasizing safety and driving experience through gradual autopilot enhancements. According to Redding (2023), tesla vehicles were initially equipped with autopilot hardware, later activating features like "Autosteer" and "Adaptive Cruise Control" through software updates, incorporating a Bosch radar, twelve sonar sensors, and an eight-camera array with upgraded computing power. The article also states that this strategy of iterative technology deployment, where hardware is installed first and functionalities are unlocked over time, not only improves vehicle intelligence but also significantly advanced autonomy, enhancing road safety and reliability. Tesla's approach mirrors the automotive industry's shift towards greater vehicle autonomy, underscoring the importance of continuous adaptation in technology to meet high safety and performance standards.

By introducing Tesla's autopilot technology advancements, enhancing road safety and driving efficiency transforms the traveling experience. However, the rise of such technologies also poses challenges, including potential job losses in driving professions.

FSD technology, supported by IIHS's safety initiatives, aims to enhance driving safety and reduce accidents. Stumpf (2022) states the benefits of Full Self-Driving technology in lowering accidents and improving driving experiences, with the IIHS playing a crucial role through ADAS education, safety ratings, and advocacy for safety features. By promoting ADAS and responsible use of autopilot systems, these efforts aim to minimize human error and improve driving conditions, thus advancing vehicle safety.  The collaboration between technological advancements in FSD and IIHS's safety advocacy underscores the importance of responsible autopilot use and education in enhancing road safety.

Autopilot systems significantly enhance driving stability, efficiency, and energy conservation across various driving conditions. According to Park et al. (2021), autopilot technologies maintain optimal speeds and ensure smooth transitions, reducing energy consumption compared to manual driving inefficiencies. Van den Berg, V., and Verhoef, E. T. (2016) state the technology flexibility in adapting to different driving scenarios, from urban areas to highways, further enhancing energy efficiency. The ability of autopilot systems to adjust to the driving environment ensures efficient energy use, mitigating the common energy wastage seen in manual driving through over-acceleration and excessive braking. The advancements in autopilot technology underscore its potential to promote sustainable driving practices by optimizing energy usage, regardless of the driving conditions.

Automation technology, particularly in the form of autopilot systems, has a high impact on the job market, causing job losses and necessitating career adjustments for many workers. Fortuna (2022) states the impact of automation on jobs, particularly for drivers, with an estimated average lifetime income loss of $80,000 per worker, totaling around $180 billion for U.S. workers. This significant financial impact is due to the displacement of workers by autonomous driving technology, forcing many to seek new employment or consider retirement. The emergence of automation technology in the workforce presents critical challenges that require attention to mitigate its negative effects on employment.

Automation technology in vehicles enhances safety and efficiency but poses employment challenges for drivers. Advances in hardware, sensors, and radar systems have significantly reduced road accidents by improving the safety and efficiency of vehicles. These technological improvements contribute to a safer and more efficient driving environment. However, the progression toward autonomous driving technologies threatens the jobs of individuals in driving professions, leading to potential unemployment.  This dual impact of vehicle automation necessitates measures that not only celebrate its contributions to road safety and efficiency but also address its negative implications on employment within the driving sectors.

Comments:
1) Peer Feedback
2) Thesis
3) Prof Brad Feedback

References:

CarShtuff.(2023, November 15)
https://www.carshtuff.com/post/which-tesla-autopilot

Fortuna, C. (2022, January 10)
https://cleantechnica.com/2022/01/10/how-will-autonomous-driving-disrupt-workers/

Park, J. E., Byun, W., Kim, Y., Ahn, H., & Shin, D. K. (2021).
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/jat/2021/8404951/

Stumpf, R. (2022, January 22) 
https://www.popsci.com/technology/iihs-creates-safety-rankings-driver-assistance-systems/

Synopsys Automotive. (n.d.)
https://www.synopsys.com/automotive/autonomous-driving-levels.html

Tesla Autopilot. Wikipedia (2024, February 15)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_Autopilot 

Tesla. 
(n.d.)
https://www.tesla.com/autopilot



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