Or, if GM's researchers could have their way, "platoons" of cars driving in close draft positions under computer control:
Smart cars and automated highways
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Shladover also cited the energy and environmental arguments that favor highway automation: "The fuel consumption and exhaust emissions of a motor vehicle is related directly to its specific driving cycle. If you can smooth out the traffic flow, vehicles can run at constant speed, which increases mileage and reduces air pollution." Furthermore, "with platoon spacing set at a half a car length, cars can draft off each other, reducing drag by half." This arrangement, Shladover added, could result in a 20-percent boost in fuel economy and similar-size cut in emissions.
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