> But given all of that I'd still give up driving in a minute if a personalized
> automated mass transit system could be devised where coupled caravaned cars
> that rode on tracks at high speeds, splitting off into smaller units near
> the destinations. Couple that with some automated way of transferring
> personal items and the like, and I'd probably even be willing to give up
> the personal vehicle altogether and pay nearly what I'm paying for
> car payment, car insurance, gas and maintenance, to be able to do somthing
> like this and not have to drive at all.

I would pay a bit more than I pay for vehicle costs to get that time back.
If I don't have to worry about controlling my vehicle, I can catch up on my
reading, play with a computer, talk to my family over the phone (or in
person), etc.  All of those things have a positive monetary value (for me),
which I would gladly tack onto my commuting expenses in return for such
things.

Mike H.

PS- two weeks ago at the Minnesota State Fair I saw an exhibit by a group
who is attempting the "small cars on tracks" thing, where you summon up 
a pod which automatically takes you to your destination.  That would be a
fairly ideal solution- if traffic along one route gets too heavy, the system can
automatically adjust and reroute.  Alas, I doubt I'll live to ride in such a 
system (and I'm only 25), but perhaps I'll someday get to work on the design
of such and MAYBE my grandkids will.
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