Chapter 10. Automated driving on the path to enlightenment?

In the past century, many developments have taken place with respect the automation of vehicles This chapter describes the expected societal impacts of automated cars level 3, 4 and 5, truck platoons and automated shuttles and derives success and failure factors for these innovations in transport. The main conclusion is that it is still uncertain whether or not the higher levels of automated vehicles will reach the 'Slope of Enlightenment'. Fundamental challenges with respect to human factors, technology, infrastructure and legislation need to be addressed at the same time. The fact that automated driving can contribute to many societal goals increases the chance that this technology will become a success. However, based on the findings of this chapter it can also be concluded that they are not a 'silver bullet' to create accessible and livable cities and regions.