The idea of autonomous and self-driving cars is far from new – since the 1920s, the world started talking about it, evolving into trials, experiments, and eventually laws permitting and regulating driverless cars around the world.

Some countries are pushing the envelope, and breaking boundaries in that respect.  In a recent report, KPMG ranked different countries for their Autonomous Vehicles Readiness Index (AVRI). While The Netherlands, Singapore and Norway are the top three countries in the overall index, Israel (where Valens is headquartered) is top ranked in the technology and innovation pillar.

South Korea is one of the top countries in terms of autonomous vehicle infrastructure (behind The Netherlands, Singapore and Japan). In December 2018, South Korea inaugurated K-City, an experimental city designed to test autonomous vehicles.  Recently, Valens signed a business agreement with the Anyang City government to develop a smart transportation system, promote self-driving industries, and improve regulations. Smart cities expedite the adoption of autonomous vehicles, as they are built with the goal of facilitating autonomous driving.

In Europe, both OEMs and governments are heavily involved in the process. The US, although ranked 4^th overall, is in a bit of a limbo regarding state and federal regulations, slowing down progress. China, ranked 20^th, is the largest automotive market in the world, aggressively pushing autonomous vehicles.

Truth is, while the idea of autonomous vehicles is enticing, there have been some hurdles in the progress and expected timeline, particularly given the challenges involved in the process, including the need for higher in-vehicle speed connectivity, cybersecurity, architectural complexity and more.

Even with some natural skepticism in the sector, autonomous vehicles – from Level 3 to 5 – will eventually become a reality. And the more we talk about it, the more prepared we will be to address the challenges and opportunities in the sector.  It’s time for us to join the ride, and get smarter in our cities and our cars.