The thought of driving a fully autonomous car has long been the dream of most motor enthusiasts since the Ford Model T first hit our highways. Fully autonomous cars have been glamorized on the big screen in sci-fi movies since the 60s and 70s, and that trend has continued with recent films such as I Robot and the Minority Report.

With the advances Tesla has made in recent years, many car experts believed that it was only a matter of time and that by the end of 2024, we would have the first fully autonomous car on our highroads. Given some of the recent setbacks, that looks ambitious.

Most major automotive giants are dedicating significant resources to creating the first fully autonomous vehicle, with Tesla, GM, and Honda leading the way. However, there have been some setbacks, with Ford and Volkswagen recently shelving the Argo Ai Autonomous driving project as they could not locate outside investors.

Currently, Tesla is stealing all the headlines with their CEO, Elon Musk, continually making grandiose claims about when Tesla will have the first fully autonomous car in our showrooms.

Before any motorist considers purchasing an autonomous car they must weigh the cost, safety concerns, and available options.

Remember, states have different rules governing autonomous cars, so if you are driving across state lines, you need to consider this.

Related: Why The U.S. Federal Government Is Investigating General Motor’s Autonomous Driving System

Autonomous Driving Technology Is Progressing Slower Than Motor Enthusiasts Hoped For

Hyundai Autonomous Driving Car
Via: Hyundai

Technology for Autonomous driving is making continuous strides, but not quite in line with predictions from Elon Musk or other CEOs of automotive companies. While Tesla is at the forefront of self-driving technology, different manufacturers have made great strides to close the gap.

It will be fascinating to see how the developments regarding designs of autonomous cars develop as some manufacturers are designing concept cars where the seats, including the driver's seat, will face inwards,with a table in the middle.

The infotainment system within fully automated cars will also have to be enhanced as passengers will be undertaking Zoom meetings or watching Netflix while their car does all the 'hard work.'

At the moment, some manufacturers have indicated that there will always be the option for the driver to take the controls and drive the car when they feel like it. Conversely, other manufacturers are completely removing the steering wheels and the pedals.

How Much Personal Data Will Your Autonomous Car Know About You

Level 5-Driverless car
Via: Vox

As everyone with a smartphone or a Gmail account can attest to, you have to provide significant personal data to use your smart devices effectively.

Well, expect no less with your fully autonomous car as it will undoubtedly store the previous destinations you traveled to and may keep them by name also. For example, car drive me to Bob's house or informing your significant other that you are working when you are actually going bowling with your buddies.

While this all sounds mildly entertaining, it will undoubtedly lead to relationship break-ups and other unpleasant scenarios that one can only imagine. While giving your car more autonomy is one thing as long as it doesn't end up sacrificing some of the freedom you take for granted.

Another pertinent concern is how easy will it be for hackers to steal information that your car retains about you. With all autonomous cars having to communicate with each other on the roads, the propensity for hacking remains high, even though manufacturers have been quick to dismiss this as an issue.

Also, it will only be a matter of time before you can pair your car with your AirPods, phone, and all smart devices, which sounds cool, except that someone may be able to control your car if you end up losing your phone.

Related: What We Know About Chinese EV Maker Xpeng's Advanced Semi-Autonomous Driving System

How Safe Are Fully Autonomous Cars On The Highways Of America

Hyundai IonQ Quantum Computing Technology
Via: Hyundai

Currently, there are five levels for a car to be considered autonomous with level zero having no capability's function and level 5 meaning full self-driving capabilities. The five levels of the automation scale have been created by The Society of Automotive Engineers.

Most modern cars are at level one and have features such as parking assist and adaptive cruise control. Level two is the highest level currently available to American consumers, and companies such as Tesla, GM, BMW, and Chevrolet all have level two vehicles on the market.

Tesla and other manufacturers are claiming that they expect levels three and four to occur in months rather than years, but this is being slowed down by regulations.

While initial safety tests highlight that self-driving cars may be safer than humans operating them, it is far too early to tell, and the sample size is way too small.

The greatest difficulty maybe when there is a combination of self-driving and human-operated cars on the road, and inevitably, a crash occurs.

Who will be blamed, and what will a human do if a self-driving car rear-ends it? Will it automatically send a message to your car with its insurance details, or will it reverse and drive off like some humans?

One thing is for certain, whether you are purchasing a car with level two autonomous driving capabilities or hoping to purchase a level three in the subsequent months(if Elon Musk's claims are to be believed). It is imperative to do your due diligence to ensure that you get the best deal and that the car is suitable for your requirements.

With all that said, the only decision left is whether you should watch a movie or a series as your car scuttles you to your desired destination.