Power (assisted) steering and power (assisted) brakes....things that have been part of cars since the early ‘60s are, though originally mechanical, in essence a form of “fly by wire” since you are using other systems (besides human muscle) as force in these safety systems. They aren’t strictly necessary, as there have been generations of cars, and even heavy trucks and tractors which were “fully manual.” Power features however, do make vehicles easier to drive, and more convenient.
Electronic fuel control systems make engines far more efficient and drivable(modern diesel cars for example, due to electronics, are almost indistinguishable in driving than their gasoline powered cousins—contra the diesel slug-cars from 20 years ago), suspension controls, emission controls, lighting....and you name it-—all systems can be improved even if just subtly, with electronics. Even our discussion here is via electronics...it is silly to be a Luddite when it comes to the amazing improvements which electronic tweaking can and does provide to virtually all complex electro/mechanical systems, of which a car is a typical example.
Due to pollution and other controls, it’s safe to say without complex computer electronics, not a single car made today would operate at all.
I don’t know for sure, but I’m nearly certain that Toyota’s electronic controls (and all other brands) have a redundant system, as in fighter aircraft.... Though naturally in cars SINCE YOU CAN ALWAYS PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND STOP ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, such a level of failsafe systems as you find in aircraft are not nearly as necessary.
“Though naturally in cars SINCE YOU CAN ALWAYS PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND STOP ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, such a level of failsafe systems as you find in aircraft are not nearly as necessary.”
Umm...are you sure Toyota’s computer controlled transmission will ALWAYS allow you to put it in neutral?
Power steering and power brakes have their own fail-safe backup - push harder! They do not disconnect you completely from the steering and brakes.