I thought self-driving cars were for tech bros. As a mum who’s driven one, I was so wrong

Hands Near the Wheel, Eyes on the Road

The safety rules were clear and uncompromising: keep hands close to the steering wheel and eyes fixed on the road ahead. Yet for the first time, the driver could let the vehicle take control and experience what it truly meant to “let go.”

“The rules are pretty strict: hands near the wheel, eyes on the road. But for once, I was able to drive a car and let it go.”

A Change in Perspective

Initially, the writer believed autonomous vehicles were little more than toys for technology enthusiasts and early adopters. However, firsthand experience shifted that perception. The drive unveiled a mix of calm, confidence, and a surprising sense of connection — not alienation — with the technology.

Technology Meets Everyday Life

Behind the sleek design and advanced sensors, the self-driving system demonstrated attentiveness that many human drivers lack. Every adjustment, stop, and acceleration felt deliberate. It wasn’t just an experiment in innovation; it was a glimpse into how technology could ease the mental load of modern life.

“As a mum, I realized this wasn’t just about technology — it’s about freedom, safety, and trust.”

Author’s summary: A mother reconsiders her view of autonomous cars after driving one, finding reassurance in their safety, precision, and unexpected human touch.

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The Sydney Morning Herald The Sydney Morning Herald — 2025-12-01

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