The computer cloud has changed the way we store important files. In the not so distant future, cloud computing will make radical changes in the transportation industry. A few decades ago, driverless cars were a common theme in science fiction movies. Self-driving cars are no longer science fiction. The transportation industry will undergo drastic changes in the next few decades. Self-driving cars will replace the traditional automobile. In the near future, a self-driving car will drive you to your destination.
A Driverless Commute
Self-driving cars will not completely replace the traditional automobile, but some people will scoff at drivers who spend money on traditional cars and trucks. Some commuters will still use a traditional car for family vacations and weekend trips. Car companies will adapt to the consumer behavior changes. Advertising campaigns will focus on pleasurable trips. There may be some self-driving premium vehicle services. Executives might summon a luxury car for their daily commute, but most people will carpool to their destination in an economy vehicle. Public transportation will be more accessible in urban and suburban cities. Most automobiles will have a virtual assistant that can handle common requests. The assistant will locate restaurants and update traffic conditions.
Fewer Parking Spaces
Large parking lots have been commonplace for nearly a century. When self-driving cars are the norm, shoppers will not need so many parking spaces. Shopping centers will have several drop off points. If you purchase a heavy item, the sales associate will send your package to a cloud vehicle. Cloud vehicles may also be used as accelerated delivery service vehicles. When you order something from a store, the cloud vehicle will deliver the part to your home within hours.
Street Sensors
Street sensors will be embedded in the streets, and the sensors will measure the changes in temperature and traffic conditions. The data will be sent to a server for analysis and processing. The information will be used in future construction projects.
The cloud will create connections between all vehicles in the cloud. The connections will prevent bottlenecks on the streets, and emergency service vehicles will be able to get to their destination as quickly as possible. Driverless vehicles will have sensors that can reduce the vehicle’s speed or calculate a different route.
Packages and Drone Delivery Services
Companies will have more delivery options. A few companies are already using drones, but the technology will be widely popular in the near future. Drones can transport large packages, and they can be remotely monitored.
The Impact on Jobs
Towing companies will rely on automated towing software. RV drivers and taxi drivers may be displaced. Robots will build driverless cars, and car com
panies will need fewer employees. Computers will design cars, and 3d printers will assemble vehicles.
Transportation and Cyber Security
Several companies are studying transportation security. Intel has launched the Automotive Security Review Board. The security group will identify security threats and thwart major attacks. Several automobile manufacturers are also studying cyber security.
Traffic Modeling Systems
Currently, traffic modeling systems are not integrated with the cloud. Traffic modeling systems will have to undergo major changes, and the changes will impact major planning decisions. Cities will still rely on hybrid vehicles, and most cities will have more EV charging stations. The infrastructure projects will be long-term investments.
Conclusion
Emerging battery companies are lowering the price of energy storage, and fossil fuels will be more expensive in the near future. Autonomous vehicles will change the world. Senior citizens will regain mobility, and architects will have more space for infrastructure projects.