Autonomo

We have all seen SmartCars, their compact size is one of the major benefits.  Autonomo is a similar compact car theory, it is half the with of a regular car.  This would be perfect for crowded cities with wide-scale traffic problems!  These cars are smart in that they have recognition software that allows them to make decisions about movements.  An Autonomo can split a regular car lane with another Autonomo, allowing for very efficient usage of the existing road space.  Autonomos have object-recognition sensors that allow them to move safely in relation to each other and other vehicles.  The creator, Charles Rattray, commented on his design, "Every time it makes a decision to follow, change lanes or overtake it will take into account the performance characteristics of the vehicles around it.  The vehicle will constantly share those decisions with all other autonomous vehicles and work together to ensure safe, efficient transport.  That means a group of Autonomos will never swerve in front of an 18-wheeler that didn't have enough time to brake."  Eventually, the company would like to advance the technology enough so that the Autonomos could move in close proximity with each other, almost as if they were connected.  Volvo and other European car companies have already begun testing this technology, called road trains.
This technology is being explored by many car companies.  If these Autonomo like cars come into reality, they could be extremely beneficial to the roadways.  In crowded cities, rush hour extends through most of the afternoon.  In the town where my grandfather lives, about an hour outside of Seattle, Washington, they have signs at the exit for the town, "Shoulder driving ok" during specific hours.  These cars could cut the traffic in major cities drastically and also help to decrease the carbon footprint one has.