Modern cars contain dozens of components that can now be controlled electronically without the need for human input.

It works by way of two conventional gearboxes and clutches, which are controlled electronically to give an automatic transmission without the energy loss normally associated with automatics.

Lighting and blinds can be controlled electronically to create the illusion that people are at home.

The rise, in the 1960s, of mist propagation, which allowed perfect growing conditions to be controlled electronically, rather than relying on humans with their watering cans, also helped.

As of 2008, the points for the crossing loop and all signals are controlled electronically.