Cars in the Advanced Traveler Information System are equipped with GPS units and linked wirelessly with other cars. The units bounce speed, distance traveled and other traffic information between each other, calculate faster routes and then guide other drivers around traffic jams.
According to the AP: “Drivetime information is sent each minute from each vehicle to a server, where it forms a picture of traffic flow around a 40 mile radius. Speed is computed by tracking progress between virtual checkpoints. The handheld computers send updates.”
The handhelds then bark driving commands at the driver via “a synthesized voice that sounds like a cross between a robot and the AOL ‘You’ve got mail’ guy.”
Via My Way News
