I agree that people think computers are magic and as soon as one fails they get out their pitchforks, but I disagree that automated cars will never happen. It will happen just more slowly.

The changes will be gradual and they have already happened to a degree. Automatic brakes have already been implemented, more expansive GPS is happening. Next I could see an expansion on cruise control.

Its a combo between marketing new features and iterating on current technology.

I think the invention of the automated car will be a gradient, not a sudden occurrence.