All Aboard the Robotic Road Train

In car commercials, every road is clear and curvy, every vista is framed by mountains and the sea, and every driver is relaxed and in the moment. In real life, though, driving is often as much a pain as it is a pleasure¿a car, once a symbol of independence, is now perhaps the last place where you can¿t use your smartphone. Even when the roads aren't clogged, you must be constantly alert because, let's face it-too many other drivers are inattentive or downright maniacal (characteristics that never apply to you, of course!). Public transportation has its own drawbacks: Buses and trains don't start at your home and don't end at your destination, nor do they leave just when you'd like or even guarantee you a seat. © 2012 IEEE.