‘The transit world is where innovation goes to die’ — The U.S. lags far behind on using driverless trains, but new projects could open the floodgates
Washington, D.C., recently advanced a plan that could let computers fully control one of its subways, and Los Angeles is seeking to build a new, completely automated line.
In the United States, mass transit systems still require drivers or operators on board for their vehicles, despite the growing presence of automated vehicles like robotaxis on roads. Two major cities—Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles—are looking to change this. Washington recently advanced a plan that could let computers fully control one of its subways, while Los Angeles seeks to build an entirely automated line.
Honolulu already has one, with a 19-mile elevated driverless line that will eventually surpass the 7.2-mile automated system in Detroit and Miami, as well as smaller systems in Las Vegas and airports. The push for automation comes amid debate over safety risks and benefits, as well as the substantial upfront costs versus long-term labor savings.
Los Angeles officials are developing safety plans for a subway line beneath the Santa Monica Mountains, which would be a major undertaking.
Written by urgent.news from Fortune's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
