Reinventing the Car: The Rise in Autonomous Competition
By: Caleb Jeanniton
After a century of steady improvement, the automobile is seeing its first dramatic reinvention. From the inception of the car until now, automakers have innovated and expanded our understanding of the car time and time again. Interestingly, despite monumental improvements in engine performance, gearbox automation, and safety standards, the automobile has generally followed the same basic formula involving the interaction between driver and car. That is, until automakers began the push towards electrifying the powertrains in their vehicles and a greater use of computer operated functions.
Both the electrification and automation of vehicles has opened up a new market niche for those who want to make a name for themselves. During the reign of internal combustion engines it was nearly impossible for small manufacturers to compete with automakers that were steeped in history and experience. However, early in the era of electrification no single automaker had a significant monopoly over technology or strategy. There was a relatively level playing field. This allowed for the founding of new companies intent on challenging the status quo.
Given the emphasis on technology in autonomous vehicles, more than just automakers are competing in this sphere. Companies ranging from Google to Dyson have come forward expressing interest in developing autonomous vehicles. Just last month it was reported that vacuum industry leaders Dyson “will invest $260 million into a new research and development center for electric vehicles” as well as develop “new technologies in the realm of solid state battery cells, high-speed electric motors, artificial intelligence, and machine learning” (Carbuzz). Clearly, this period of transition will not only see the reinvention of the automobile, but will also bring about the rise and fall of those who wish to have their names attached to such an innovative era.
Read more here: carbuzz.com/news/dyson-just-bought-an-airport-for-electric-cars
