Britt Spencer
Finding the product-market fit for any new technology always involves trial and error: autonomous driving has so far has swallowed an estimated $50 billion in investment with relatively little to show in return. In 2021 we will see autonomous driving finally find its fit â and itâs not in personal travel.
Billed as the first everyday consumer application of AI, self-driving has simultaneously inspired its champions and proved a worry for its investors. Aiming high in terms of functionality has delivered plenty of exciting business cases, but the science and engineering problems they entail are not easily soluble. Aiming low has not delivered business cases that make sense and deliver a return. This conundrum has sent technology companies in a number of exciting directions, whereas automotive firms have ended up favouring simpler driving-assistance features that they can monetise more easily.