Matt McAvoy Book Review

An awful lot of work, time and research have gone into this passionate and detailed case for the benefits of the development and mass production of autonomous vehicles.  In the context of the technological race between the two tech superpowers of the U.S. and China, it is in fact a far more comprehensive look at the sector in those two countries generally, profoundly comparing the economic, social, political and ethical aspects of the technology around the project.  Wilcox has covered every possible angle there is, to such an extent that it feels like such a complete subject study, the future of the vehicles themselves at times can appear somewhat incidental.  He has put a huge amount of work into this book, and interviewed some very serious, credible figures on the subject. 

This is definitely as professional and academic a trade publication evaluating this subject as you will find anywhere.  But, of course, in that respect be warned: it is not casual or bedtime reading; it is a high quality book, created with passion and deep engagement by Wilcox.  It is interesting, for the most part, and extremely well written by an expert in the field – but only those with a genuine academic, professional or lay-person’s interest in the subject matter would probably consider it a cover-to-cover read.

The economic, technological and political rivalry between the nations is an engrossing one, and the abundant eye-opening detail on this, as well as the industry at large, really showcases Wilcox’s vast knowledge.  Sure, there are also plenty of opportunities taken to have a pop at Trump (what non-fiction doesn’t these days?), but considered in the context of the overall subject matter, it is well placed and appropriate.  For the sake of the global community and the progress of these shared technological aspirations, most would probably agree that the race to which this book refers will probably be better run as a cooperative venture – but of course, as Wilcox explains grandly, the likelihood of this looks farther away from ever now.  I learnt a lot reading this – not just about the autonomous vehicle project, but also about diplomatic and trade relations between the two countries.  It is a very good book on its topic(s) – the best you are likely to read, even if you are in the professional loop.