Quartermaster California reposted this
From Robots to Seagliders: Riding the Wave of Mobility Innovation at CoMotion LA! Attending the second day of CoMotion LA 2024 has been nothing short of exhilarating. The conference buzzes with innovative ideas and discussions centered on the future of mobility, emphasizing sustainable and intelligent transportation solutions. Among the standout topics are robotic deliveries, drone logistics, urban cable cars, and seagliders. The Dutch innovation and Mobility Trade Mission participant, PAL-V —a car-airplane hybrid—continues to captivate attendees with its groundbreaking concept. While some in Europe may still view delivery robots and drones with skepticism, here in Los Angeles, they are becoming integral to daily life. Autonomous vehicles, like the Waymo taxis operating in LA and San Francisco, are no longer just prototypes but active participants in the urban transport ecosystem. Tesla’s recent unveiling of a robotaxi concept has further stirred the industry, contributing to a notable 30% increase in its stock value. Dutch delegates on the mobility trade mission who experienced a ride in a Waymo vehicle unanimously describe it as a revelation. The workshops here are echoing a common sentiment: 2024 marks a pivotal year for autonomous taxis. Whether this surge represents a lasting transformation or a fleeting trend, akin to the earlier hype around e-scooters and car-sharing, remains to be seen. However, the potential economic efficiencies of driverless cabs are evident. A personal comparison on exactly(!) the same route between an Uber ride costing $23.68 and a Waymo ride at $9.26 highlights the significant savings achievable by eliminating the driver—a compelling prospect for the future of urban mobility.
