Google Driverless Car Licensed for Use on the Roads in Nevada

The state of Nevada just granted the first license for a car that drives itself. The license was granted to Google for its hands-free car.

The license allows Google to test drive their new autonomous vehicles in the state. The license was granted after a special delegation, called the Autonomous Review Committee reviewed and granted Google’s petition.

According to reports, the cars are not really driverless, two Google employees must be in the vehicle at all times ready to take over the controls if something goes awry. But, it never does, the vehicle has a shiny track record.

The first car licensed is a Toyota Prius that has been modified by the Internet search firm. The vehicle uses artificially intelligent computers, video cameras, radar sensors, and a laser range finder to navigate and contend with the traffic. Software Engineer for the vehicle, Sebastian Thrun says the vehicle has traveled over 140,000 miles with only one minor accident. The accident wasn’t its fault, a car behind hit the autonomous car causing very minor damage at a traffic light.

The state of Nevada changed its laws in March to allow self driven cars. These new additions to the roadways have a red license plate with an infinity sign next to a designated number, this vehicles plate is 001. The state of California is considering similar changes to their laws to allow the driverless cars on their roads.

Google’s long-term plans are to put them on the road for the general public.