(CNN) As self-driving cars begin to appear on public highways, the first autonomous boats are heading for the waterways of Amsterdam. Multi-functionThe autonomous boats will provide an alternative, eco-friendly transport option. "The technology is like in self-driving cars with sensors scanning the environment and building a three-dimensional model to navigate," says Ratti. "Just like with self-driving cars we want to accumulate many miles to make sure the system is safe, and to test it for an extensive period of time." Future fleetThe field of self-driving boats is likely to expand in the coming years, with several companies developing new designs.

Source: CNN October 12, 2016 09:11 UTC