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Google continues to pursue its autonomous car project as it deploys the first self-driving car prototype in Austin, Texas. Google said it does not have commercial strategies for the project, but the company hiring former Hyundai CEO John Krafcik may indicate the company's future business plans for its autonomous cars as self-driving taxis.

The Big G moves to the next phase of the autonomous car project by testing its tiny car prototypes in the streets of Austin, Texas with a Google safety driver on board to ensure everything goes well. The Verge reported that the prototypes are now roaming around the city along with modified, self-driving Lexus SUVs. Google's autonomous car project are covering 10,000 miles a week, driving more than one million miles without a driver.

Since the project launch, Google's cars have experienced only 16 "minor" accidents wherein the other vehicle involved is at fault. Google also has to find a way to assure drivers that self-driving cars are safe in order to make the project a success.

Indiana Gazette released a report that Google hired auto industry expert and ex-Hyundai CEO John Krafcik to head the autonomous car project. Contrary to Google's previous statements of having no commercial plans for the project, hiring Krafcik could indicate that Google plans to make a viable business out of its self-driving car initiative.

If Google decides to sell its autonomous cars, they might enter the car market as self-driving taxis like Uber for cities and other populated areas. The company's investment on Google automated cars might pose a threat to traditional car makers.

The Google self-driving car project started way back in 2009, according to the project's website. Google auto cars were designed to offer an easier and safer mode of transportation. The cars operate using sensors to detect objects around them. The cars navigate city streets through the assistance of a computer software. The software sets a safe speed and trajectory for the cars and drive around obstacles with the help of sensors.

Google's driverless cars are set to be released in 2020. Google also announced the "Paint the Town" art contest where artists are encouraged to submit designs to be printed on the car. Five designs will be chosen and the winners get a chance to ride the vehicles. Deadline of submission of artworks is on November 1.