Missy Cummings, Director of the Mason Autonomy and Robotics Center asks what it takes to make vehicles truly autonomous? This episode dives into the fascinating world of self-driving technology, from the sensors that build a "world model" to the innovative use cases like last-mile delivery and eco-friendly shuttles. While autonomous vehicles promise to reduce congestion and improve accessibility, they also face challenges—like sensor issues in adverse weather, coding errors, and vulnerabilities to generative AI hacks. Learn how the industry is tackling these hurdles, the importance of safety culture, and the steps needed to ensure this transformative technology benefits society.