Car (or bike) Chat!

You're missing the point, Martin. That might be what they SAY, but it doesn't necessarily mean that's what they *MEAN*. The key, and frequently mentioned word there, is "management". Where avoidable, I don't want my activities or behaviour, driving or otherwise, 'managed' by any fucker! At least not in that way.

We can go round in circles, but I stand by what I said, which is that both (heavily computerised) electric cars and 'smart' highways (not just motorways) are forms of technology able to be abused by those in control of such.

Me? I'll be the one who's in 100% control of my own car, thanks, and where I go - at ALL times! MINIMISING computerisation/automation, and MAXIMIMISING manual functionality, quite simply, is the answer for the users (not the makers) to stay in control of any product.

Marco.

All 'management' means is that there is a variable speed limit and they can open and close lanes. There's nothing in or on a smart motorway that can take control of your car, or any car.

In your opinion. Perhaps not now, but in future, who knows? Best that we just agree to disagree;)

In any case, I certainly won't be helping to facilitate the expansion of smart motorways or electric/driver-less cars!

Marco.

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Originally Posted by Marco

In your opinion. Perhaps not now, but in future, who knows? Best that we just agree to disagree;)

In any case, I certainly won't be helping to facilitate the expansion of smart motorways or electric/driver-less cars!

Marco.

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It's not an opinion Marco, it's just what it is - the smart motorway senses traffic volume and speed in a given area and posts appropriate speed limit signs to even the traffic flow. Have you ever suddenly found yourself amongst greatly slowed down traffic on the motorway, thought "ooh there must be an accident up ahead", and then the traffic clears and you find the congestion was for no good reason. Annoys the shit out of me. Smart motorways address this problem.

Don't like there being no hard shoulder though, that looks like a recipe for disaster. :doh:

Oh, and if you pay taxes you are helping facilitate the expansion of smart motorways etc etc...

One more thing:

Plenty of petrol heads in Britain, but I think the majority of motorists just want to reliably get from A to B in comfort. For the die hard enthusiasts there's always track days. Somewhere like Oulton Park in Cheshire. I think it's in Cheshire.

I'm not disputing what it currently does, Piggurs, simply stating what it *could do* in future, as the technology 'matures' and those in charge seek to impose more control on the road networks and behaviour of drivers.

Fortunately, I avoid motorways wherever possible, as they're so boring and soulless (much preferring to use generally more scenic A or B roads) to get to where I need to go, and fortunately am rarely in a hurry, so although I've experienced what you've said, I'm rarely troubled by it.

Yes, part of the taxes I pay will no doubt go towards paying for this pish, which can't be avoided, but I won't be 'supporting' it (or electric cars) in any other way.

Marco.

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Originally Posted by Pigmy Pony

One more thing:

Plenty of petrol heads in Britain, but I think the majority of motorists just want to reliably get from A to B in comfort.

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That's fine, but whilst getting from A to B, driving should, as far as possible, also be a fun and rewarding experience, not the opposite.

Marco.

Many people don't care. It's an appliance to them.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Marco

I'm not disputing what it currently does, Piggurs, simply stating what it *could do* in future, as the technology 'matures' and those in charge seek to impose more control on the road networks and behaviour of drivers.

Fortunately, I avoid motorways wherever possible, as they're so boring and soulless (much preferring to use generally more scenic A or B roads) to get to where I need to go, and fortunately am rarely in a hurry, so although I've experienced what you've said, I'm rarely troubled by it.

Yes, part of the taxes I pay will no doubt go towards paying for this pish, which can't be avoided, but I won't be 'supporting' it (or electric cars) in any other way.

Marco.

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If enough drivers (like yourself) avoid these smart motorways like the plague, traffic volume on them will be reduced and so congestion greatly reduced, which is the aim. Job done! Pretty smart, eh? :)

My view on French roads: Most locals won't bother with the autoroutes for short journeys as they don't want to pays tolls, and the Peage is a pain in the arse. Makes their motorways much less clogged than ours. We on the other hand will jump on the motorway just to the next junction.