A test drive off campus last week illustrated the many hazards. A tractor trailer blocked visibility entering a busy traffic circle, forcing the lead vehicle to inch tentatively into oncoming cars. When it did find a break, there wasn't enough time for the second vehicle to follow before another car inserted itself between them, cutting off communication. The technician aboard the second vehicle had no choice but to hit manual and start driving.
In ordinary life, the technology might one day be used in a passenger car to allow drivers stuck in traffic jams to sit back and read the newspaper, Broggi said.
The vehicles travel at a maximum 50 or 60 kilometers an hour, and must be recharged for a full eight hours after every two to three hours of driving.
The idle pair will be carried along the route on a truck.
(Source: shanghaidaily.com.cn)
