Staff Reports
A recent power outage in San Francisco has highlighted the growing concerns surrounding our increasing reliance on electric and driverless vehicles. On a busy weekend, about 25,000 residents were left in the dark after a fire at a substation. Although power was mostly restored by the next morning, the incident serves as a reminder of how fragile our electric grid can be, especially as we move towards a more electrified means of transportation.
With the rise of driverless cars, the dependency on constant power becomes even more critical. The outage showcased a significant flaw: when traffic lights go down, these vehicles are unable to navigate. Unlike human drivers who can adapt to changing conditions by following basic stop and go rules, autonomous vehicles become immobilized, causing unnecessary traffic jams. This creates not only an inconvenience but potentially dangerous situations for passengers depending on these high-tech solutions.
This disruption underscores a crucial point: our grid must be robust to handle the increased load electric vehicles present. The promise of a green future shouldn’t come at the expense of practical reliability. While electric vehicles are marketed as a step towards sustainability, they require a massive amount of energy, which paradoxically might still rely on traditional fuels. Transitioning to a more electric-centric transportation system without a fully prepared grid seems shortsighted.
Furthermore, this incident sheds light on the necessity for personal responsibility and preparedness. Unlike a driverless car, a conventional vehicle powered by gasoline wouldn’t be stranded in a blackout. In fact, many drivers keep extra fuel on hand precisely for such emergencies. The capability to maintain mobility during unexpected situations should not be underestimated in our pursuit of progress.
As California sets ambitious goals for an all-electric fleet in the coming years, this situation serves as a cautionary tale. We must ensure our infrastructure can support these advancements without frequent disruptions. While embracing technology is inevitable, it should not come at the cost of practicality and safety. Losing sight of these fundamental needs could lead to a future riddled with more than just traffic jams.
