[2019·福州模拟]   Many Americans think of driverless cars as a futuristic technology that will revolutionize travel in cities and along state highways. But recent experiments are proving that autonomous vehicles also have the potential to improve the quality of life for millions of Americans underserved by traditional modes of transportation, such as the elderly and disabled, so long as lawmakers make smart policies that pave the way for innovation.

A retirement community in San Jose, Calif., which has been transformed by a small fleet of driverless taxis, shows the potential of self­driving cars to transform people's lives. Built by a tech start­up called Voyage, the modified Ford Fusions are currently limited to a two­mile road, but residents are already having the benefits of these autonomous vehicles, which allow them to participate in social activities they would otherwise be unable to enjoy simply because they could not get to them.

When the trial run finally expands to 15 miles of road, these residents — whose average age is 76 — will also have a convenient and reliable new way to appointments. As these cars continue to serve residents there, it is easy to understand why California is moving to simplify regulations for the industry.