Abstract
Continually growing demand for auto mobility in the US is creating increasing levels of vehicle congestion. In addition, the accident and fatality rates on our nations highways remain at substantial levels. These problems are such that sweeping solutions are receiving serious consideration. Consequently, the USDOT requested a Consortium of private and public organizations explore the potential of automated highway systems (AHS) as a possible solution to those problems. The paper provides an automotive perspective of the potential role of an AHS in the US (the Dream), the research and development work done by the Consortium, the achievements to date as showcased at Demo97 (the Reality), and expectations for the future of AHS in the US. We address the major issues in the areas of technical feasibility, infrastructural implications and consumer concerns. The paper concludes that an automated highway system in the US could be a reality within the next three to four decades.