We are now one step closer to that day, depicted in long-ago Buck Rogers comic strips, World's Fair scenarios, and who-knows-how-many Popular Science covers (not to forget architect and futurist Paulo Soleri's new city concepts), when the car will drive itself. Which merits the question... will it still be a car?

A story in the National Post informs us that Honda will introduce a substitute for drivers who are alert but need a break during long highway journeys. Called ADAS, its auto-pilot capability is based on Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS). ACC is a radar sensor at the front of the car. It scans ahead to look for other vehicles, responding by reducing or increasing the car's speed. LKAS, a camera placed next to the rear-view mirror, monitors the white lines along expressways, using the data to control the car's steering. Drivers cannot leave their seats, but need only touch the steering wheel every ten seconds to indicate that they are still alert. (Or alive?)

It will only be available in Europe as the US is terrified of class-action lawsuits if something goes wrong and Canada is worried that snow will obscure the white lines. Enthusiasts are outraged by any system that takes the driver out of driving. Since the driving most of us do ranges between boredom and sheer terror, I say ADAS is a welcome assist. We'll get our kicks on backroads where others fear to tread.