Based on the changes we are compelled to make in light of the pandemic, autonomous vehicles could provide value in ways that weren't as obvious before. At the same time, Kolodge acknowledges that the financial disruption that has accompanied the pandemic will likely cool many global automakers' zeal for pursuing autonomous vehicle technology. "On the plus side, one of the solutions that we've been studying with consumers for automated vehicles is having an automated vehicle deliver goods or services to you. The goal of keeping exchanges of goods "contactless" speaks to the value of autonomous delivery vehicles. So even though Kolodge sees traditional automakers potentially hitting the pause button on some of their autonomous vehicle R&D, she believes the technologies will move forward, and the pandemic will foster that development.

Source: Forbes August 14, 2020 10:30 UTC