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Digital Planet: Self-driving cars on the horizon?

Factual: Science & Nature

Image:  Auto driving system and technology - hands off the steering wheel.

19/07/2022 GMT

Self-driving cars on the horizon?

BBC World Service - Digital Planet, Self-driving cars on the horizon?

A recent UN regulation extends automated driving technology to 130 km/h

Self-driving cars on the horizon?; robbed of mobile innovation; crypto adoption during Argentina's inflation crisis

A recent amendment to a regulation by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) will extend automated driving technology to 130 km/h. The regulation, which will come into effect in January 2023, will set the standard for car manufacturers to develop so-called "level 3" autonomous vehicle. Gareth speaks to Francois Guichard, who is leading UN regulations on vehicle automation, about what "level 3" really means, and when we will see these types of cars on the road. Also, Prof Jack Stilgoe tells us about the potential issues and implications of self-driving technology.

Robbed of mobile innovation
In many cities globally, urban robberies have become a familiar occurrence, so much so that many people have started to develop their own strategies to mitigate losing their mobile phone. In São Paulo, some leave their phones at home or take a second throw-away phone that they can give away instead, but there are more technological solutions as well. Expert contributor Angelica Mari tells us more, and shares why this is affecting the adoption of mobile phone innovation, in particular fintech.   

Crypto adoption during Argentina's inflation crisis
In Argentina, rising inflation has become a growing issue. Economy minister Martin Guzman resigned earlier this month, and annual inflation is set to hit above 70%. In light of the peso's instability, some Argentines are deciding to invest in cryptocurrencies instead. Is this a safer bet? Could crypto adoption affect Argentina's economy? Our reporter Lucía Cholakian has been finding out more.

The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell with expert commentary from Angelica Mari.

Studio Manager: Duncan Hannant
Producer: Florian Bohr

(Image:  Auto driving system and technology.  Credit:  show999 / iStock / Getty Images Plus)

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