Do Google Inc (GOOG), Tesla Motors Inc (TSLA) Want Ionut Budisteanu?

If the commonly thrown around figure of $75,000 for the Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) system is even fairly close to accurate, they’re both certainly correct. I’m not sure how a $75,000 or even $50,000 system would get down to a cost within five years (Google has said its systems will be available within five years) to where a sizable number of even higher-end car owners would opt to have it installed.

That said, I still think it was smart for Google to work on its driverless system without regard to costs – at least initially. Google’s aiming for the best technology possible. Once it feels it’s achieved this goal, it can work on reducing costs to determine if a lower-cost option can match or come very, very close to its current system. After all, we’re talking about a technology where even a small error could have disastrous consequences. Google could also offer a couple different systems.

What I think will happen is that they’ll be two routes to the migration from human drivers to fully autonomous drivers: Google’s direct jump and an incremental step change.

Google’s systems – or the direct jump — could appeal to consumers who can afford pricier systems plus feel comfortable with the technology. They also could be very beneficial in certain commercial applications. In the incremental route, “autopilots” will be available to take over some — but not all — of the driving. Costs aside, this route could get systems in cars faster, as there won’t be the need for massive legislative and regulatory overhauls. A licensed human driver will be in the car, and be legally responsible for its operation.

Foolish bottom line

It’s likely Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) will be the first to market with fully autonomous systems. Though it seems that lower-cost, quite advanced, semi-autonomous systems — perhaps something similar to Ionut Budisteanu’s system or Oxford University’s system (link below) — could find buyers among those who can’t afford an early fully autonomous system, as well as those who don’t feel comfortable making the switch in the early stages.

Ionut Budisteanu’s Romania, as well as much of Eastern and Central Europe, are not on economic par with the U.S. and Western Europe. Thus, there’s an even greater need for self-driving systems to be lower-cost in these regions.

Congratulations, Ionut!

The article Will Google, Tesla & Others Have a Bidding War for this 19-Year-Old? originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by BA McKenna.

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