Circling Robotaxi Incident Briefly Traps Tech Entrepreneur

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JAN 8

Above: A Waymo autonomous self-driving Jaguar taxi drives along a street on March 14, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. Image copyright: Mario Tama/Staff/Getty images News via Getty Imagesstory last updated JAN 9

The Spin

Narrative A

While reminiscent of a 1920s comedic movie, this incident highlights serious risks of automation errors, from cars mistaking puddles for hazards to crashing into poles and trucks. The illusion of self-driving safety can be dangerous, leaving passengers powerless when systems fail, turning tech dreams into nerve-wracking ordeals.

CNN

Narrative B

This was an isolated, temporary glitch rather than proof of system failure — despite the issue having legs on social media. This transportation technology aims to reduce accidents and fatalities compared to human drivers, with data showing fewer injuries and damage. Judging an entire technological leap by rare errors ignores its potential to revolutionize transportation for the better.

Washington Post

Metaculus Prediction

There's an 80% chance that driverless cars will be commercially available in Las Vegas by May 28, 2029, according to the Metaculus prediction community.