Unlike distracted or drunk drivers, self-driving cars always operate at their maximum ability. Therefore, they are likely to reduce accidents and lower the huge death toll on our roads. Additionally, the smart algorithms will find faster routes to our destinations, drive more efficiently and consume less fuel.

Automated vehicles could reduce energy consumption in transportation by as much as 90%, or increase it by more than 200%, according to research from the Department of Energy (DOE). That difference matters—more than a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions come from the transportation sector, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).