London's cabbies memorize 25,000 streets. But will robotaxis overtake them?
Summary
London's black cab drivers have to memorize 25,000 streets and thousands of landmarks to pass a tough licensing test called "the Knowledge." Meanwhile, new self-driving robot taxis using artificial intelligence are starting to appear in some cities, but London's cabbies are confident in their skills and knowledge.Key Facts
- London black cab drivers must pass "the Knowledge," a test requiring memorization of 25,000 streets and many landmarks.
- The Knowledge exam has existed since 1865 and is taken orally by aspiring cabbies.
- Studies show that drivers who pass the Knowledge develop larger parts of the brain related to memory.
- Some tech companies are introducing AI-powered robot taxis that drive without humans.
- These autonomous taxis are already operating in some U.S. cities but are not yet common in London.
- Experienced cab drivers believe their detailed local knowledge and experience cannot be matched by GPS or AI.
- The licensing exams involve naming shortest routes between random points in London.
- Learning "the Blue Book," which lists thousands of customer points of interest, is essential for cabbie exam preparation.
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