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Self-Driving Car Makes Texas Debut In Austin


Google's famous self-driving car made its Texas debut in Austin at the Transportation Forum on Monday.

Michael Lugo is hoping to get his hands on one of the driver-less cars in the future. He said being able to drive with no hands will be like having a chauffeur -- without technically having one.

Lugo said if driver-less cars were made available to everyday consumers it would change the way we see driving.

The car navigates with a laser mounted to the roof that creates a detailed 3D image of the surrounding environment. Google said a human should always sit in the driver seat ready to grab the steering wheel and hit the brakes.

"If I still have to be in the driver's seat that still gives me a lot of time to brush my teeth, comb my hair, and shave on my way to work," Lugo said.

A mobile bathroom may be in Lugo's sights, but the project has a serious side. Google said it aims to make driving safer, more efficient and ease traffic nightmares.

Kelli Reyna, a spokesperson with the Texas Department of Transportation in Austin, said TxDOT’s number one focus is safety on the roads.

"At TxDOT we are always looking for ways to do things better, smarter, so we are always looking for good ideas," Reyna said.

Google expects its self-driving cars to be on the streets for consumers in less than five years.

By Cassie Gallo