Multitudes express interest in utilizing autonomous vehicles

Germans are showing a growing acceptance for autonomous transport, according to a survey conducted by Bitkom, a German digital association. The survey found that 70% of respondents are open to the idea of using autonomous means of transport, with a higher percentage preferring public transportation over privately-owned vehicles.

Ralf Wintergerst, Bitkom's President, stated that Germans are not technologically skeptical regarding autonomous transport. He further predicted that autonomous driving is no longer a utopia, but a reality that is quickly approaching.

In the survey, 57% of respondents expressed their openness to the idea of using a privately-owned self-driving car. However, more Germans are open to the idea of using autonomous public transportation. Around 70% of respondents would use autonomous buses, while 72% would use autonomous U- or S-bahns (suburban or urban railways).

Interestingly, a higher percentage of respondents (44%) are open to traveling with an autonomous regional or long-distance train compared to a privately-owned self-driving car (57%). This trend continues with autonomous U- or S-bahns, where 72% of respondents would use them, compared to 70% for autonomous buses.

The survey also revealed that more than half (53%) of respondents see autonomous driving as the future standard. However, 43% view autonomous driving as an overhyped fad that won't last.

Numerous pilot projects in Germany demonstrate the potential of autonomous driving technology. These projects, along with developments in the USA, China, and Singapore, are examples of the progress being made in this field.

Wintergerst mentioned these developments as evidence of the growing acceptance and implementation of autonomous driving technology. He also highlighted the benefits that autonomous transport could bring, such as increased efficiency, reduced traffic congestion, and improved safety.

In conclusion, the survey by Bitkom indicates that Germans are increasingly open to the idea of autonomous transport. With more pilot projects and developments in this field, it seems that autonomous driving is moving closer to becoming the standard for transportation in Germany and beyond.