Startup Hires People to Remotely Drive Autonomous Cars

Autonomous cars are definitely on their way. Once just a technology enjoyed in sci-fi films, driverless cars is here to stay. Though they still have some way to go before they are perfect.

SEE ALSO: TESLA INTRODUCES 'DOG MODE' TO KEEP YOUR PET COOL

One startup is helping get them on the roads sooner. Designated Driver is a Portland-based company that has created a system where a human driver can remotely monitor driverless cars and take control of the vehicle if it is under duress or malfunctions.

Service extends the use of autonomous vehicles

Autonomous cars work well under conditions they have been well programmed to deal with. Think long straight drives without too many unexpected events. But getting them to deal with unexpected obstacles or poor weather remains a challenge.

Here is where Designated Driver comes in. A trained and skilled human driver can remotely monitor the car's journey and take over when needed. Designated Driver says their system makes autonomous vehicles “usable in unfamiliar situations, such as when driving through road construction or inclement weather.”

Drivers getting hired

The technology extends the use of autonomous vehicles into areas and spaces they otherwise wouldn’t be suitable for. The practice, known as teleoperation (not teleportation!) might be one way that autonomous cars can start to enter our roadways before L4 or L5 vehicles have passed regulation.

In another plus systems like Designated Driver add jobs to the industry -  in a space well-known for its removal of them. The idea might also help ease the anxiety people feel about the future of driverless cars.

Americans scared of driverless cars

A recent survey by the AAA revealed that 71 percent of Americans say that they’re afraid to ride in a self-driving car. A figure up from 63 percent who responded to a similar survey back in 2017.

Knowing the car is being monitored by a human who has the ability to take control of the vehicle might be one way that companies can persuade clients to try the service.

“Automated vehicle technology is evolving on a very public stage and, as a result, it is affecting how consumers feel about it,” Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of Automotive Engineering and Industry Relations, observed.

Humans jump in when needed

Having a human in overseeing the vehicle might have other unexpected benefits too. In scenarios where a car is transporting people, the human may be able to spot someone in distress more easily than the cameras on board.

[see-also]

Quickly assisting a passenger who is experiencing a health crisis could save lives. A human connection might also help make the autonomous vehicle experience smoother.

If you own an Alexa or Google Home-type device, you’ll know that they don’t always understand what you are saying. In instances where voice-activated software is in use a human listening in really benefit passengers with a speech impediment, strong accents or cognitive impairment.