Say what? Transport Minister to introduce self-driving cars?

The Minister of Transport said that transportation will be revolutionised in South Africa, including the introduction of self-driving cars.

Jul 24, 2024 - 15:00
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Say what? Transport Minister to introduce self-driving cars?

During her budget vote speech, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said that transportation will be revolutionised in South Africa over the next decade. This ‘revolution’ will include the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for traffic management on the country’s roads, the introduction of self-driving cars, and delivery by drones.

Budget vote speech by Minister of Transport

In her budget vote speech earlier this month, Minister Barbara Creecy stated that the mission of the Department of Transport is to ‘lead the development of efficient and integrated transport systems by creating a framework of sustainable policies and regulations’.

She emphasised that an efficient and functioning transport sector is the key to a successful economy. Such a transport sector is one that moves people and goods safely, speedily, and also affordably across the country.

“Transport is in the midst of one of the greatest changes since the introduction of the automobile. The transition to new energy vehicles is also accelerating rapidly, with electric vehicles set to be the cars of our now and immediate future.”

Barbara Creecy, Minister of Transport

Self-driving cars on the cards

The use of artificial intelligence in traffic management, the introduction of self-driven vehicles, and drones for delivery, are all part of the innovations that Creecy wants to implement in the transport sector.

Technology experts have been testing the technology of self-driving cars for more than a decade. However, decision-makers in many countries are reluctant to give driverless cars free rein.

Do other countries have self-driving cars?

According to The New York Times, China is testing more self-driving cars than any other country. Assisted driving systems and robot taxis are becoming more popular with the help of the Chinese government. Cities are designating large areas for testing self-driving cars on public roads.

In Wuhan there are 500 taxis navigated by computers on the roads. Across China, 16 cities have allowed companies to test self-driving cars on public roads.

The UK government said that fully self-driving cars could be on UK’s roads within the next two years. This is after their autonomous vehicle legislation became law earlier this year.

Drone delivery: The answer to speedy delivery?

Drone delivery, as part of the transport industry, is gaining traction as a viable and efficient delivery method in many countries. According to a recent survey conducted by DroneUp, drone deliveries are not only meeting but exceeding customer expectations while also driving incremental revenue for retailers.

Many consumers highlighted the speed of delivery as a main benefit of drone delivery. The survey showed that customers find drone deliveries to be a practical and highly effective delivery solution.

Do you think self-driving cars will work in South Africa?

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