Scientific American Frontiers Season 15 Episode 2 Cars That Think

Scientific American Frontiers is a long-standing TV show that has covered everything from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space. In season 15, episode 2, viewers are taken on a journey into the world of autonomous vehicles in an episode entitled "Cars That Think."

Host and narrator Alan Alda sets out to explore the rapidly growing world of autonomous cars. The episode begins with a trip to San Francisco, where Alda learns about the cutting-edge technology that makes self-driving cars possible. From high-tech sensors to powerful computers, the technology behind autonomous vehicles is constantly evolving.

One of the highlights of the episode is a visit to the General Motors Technical Center in Warren, Michigan, where Alda climbs aboard a fully autonomous Cadillac. He is able to sit back and relax as the car drives itself around a closed course, navigating around obstacles and even stopping for pedestrians.

But as exciting as the technology behind autonomous vehicles is, there are also some concerns about their safety. In the episode, Alda visits the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to learn more about the potential risks of self-driving cars. Researchers there are working to create a new safety rating system for autonomous vehicles, which could help to prevent accidents and save lives.

Next, the episode takes viewers to the Stanford University Autonomous Driving Lab, where researchers are working to create a fully autonomous car that can navigate the chaotic streets of a real city. Alda talks to the scientists behind the project and learns about the challenges they face in creating a car that can read traffic lights, navigate narrow streets, and safely interact with other drivers.

Another highlight of the episode is a visit to a Tesla showroom, where Alda takes a Tesla Model S for a spin. The car is equipped with autopilot technology, which allows it to steer, accelerate, and brake on its own. Alda is clearly impressed by the technology, but he also notes that it has limitations. For example, it struggles to navigate complex intersections or heavy traffic.

Finally, the episode concludes with a visit to the University of Michigan's Mcity, a testing facility designed specifically for autonomous vehicles. Alda is able to see firsthand how the cars are put through their paces, navigating through mock cities, roundabouts, and even railroad crossings. The testing is crucial to ensure that autonomous vehicles are safe and reliable before they hit the road.

Ultimately, "Cars That Think" is an informative and engaging look at the world of autonomous vehicles. While the technology behind these cars is incredibly impressive, there are still many hurdles to overcome before they can become a mainstream mode of transportation. But as Alda notes in the episode, the potential benefits of self-driving cars – from reduced congestion to increased safety – are too great to ignore.