Human Drivers

Autonomous vehicles get all the headlines, but

automakers are gradually adding advanced electronic

safety features to human-driven cars as they step toward

a world of self-driving vehicles.

Car and tech companies are rolling out laser sensors,

artificial intelligence, larger viewing screens that show

more of the road, cameras that can read speed limit

signs, and systems that slow cars ahead of curves and

construction zones.

Many of the new features repurpose cameras and radar

that already are in cars for automatic emergency braking,

pedestrian detection and other safety devices. The

companies also are keeping a closer watch on drivers to

make sure they’re paying attention.

n Monday, Arizona’s governor suspended Uber’s self-

driving vehicle testing privileges after one of its

autonomous vehicles struck and killed a pedestrian

last week. But auto engineers and industry analysts

still say roads will become safer as more vehicles get

automated features that either assist or replace human

drivers. The government says 94 percent of crashes

are caused by human error.

The cutting-edge devices usually come out first in

more expensive vehicles, but go to mainstream

vehicles as costs fall.