Self-Driving Cars: The Evolution Continues
The promise of fully autonomous vehicles has long been a topic of discussion among science-fiction authors, tech moguls like Elon Musk, and automotive enthusiasts. But where does the technology really stand today, and what can we expect in the future? The journey to fully self-driving cars is happening incrementally, with advancements being made in stages.
Today’s Technology
Currently, we’re seeing significant advancements in driver-assistance systems. For instance, General Motors’ Super Cruise Level 2-plus system is available on 15 nameplates and can be used on 750,000 miles of North American highways. This system uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon Ride Platform to interpret data from various sensors, including cameras, radar, and lidar. Similarly, Ford’s BlueCruise is available on seven Ford and Lincoln models, covering 130,000 miles of highway, and is receiving incremental improvements through software updates.
Stellantis is taking a bold step with its forthcoming STLA AutoDrive system, which promises to deliver hands- and eyes-free driving, effectively providing Level 3 autonomy under certain conditions on authorized roads. Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot has already achieved Level 3 capability on a test fleet of EQS and S-Class sedans, with plans to offer it to customers via subscription in California and Nevada.
Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities continue to evolve, though they remain in a beta testing phase. Recently, Musk suggested that Tesla might license FSD to other manufacturers, potentially bringing more extensive Level 3 benefits to the market soon.
Tomorrow’s Advancements
As we move forward, the industry is exploring various technologies to enhance autonomous driving. The debate continues about whether cameras alone are sufficient for autonomous driving, with many manufacturers opting for a multi-sensor approach that includes radar and lidar for improved safety and reliability. Advances in artificial intelligence, connectivity, and sensor technology are crucial for achieving higher levels of autonomy.
One interesting development is the use of remote drivers to control vehicles. Companies like Halo.Car are already using this technology to deliver and retrieve rental cars, and services like Ottopia’s remote-chauffeur service are on the horizon.
The Far Future
When fully autonomous Level 4 and Level 5 vehicles become common, they will still need to coexist with human-driven cars. This means they’ll require advanced safety features, both passive and active. The design of these vehicles may also change, with non-traditional seating arrangements becoming more prevalent. The Rimac Verne robotaxi, for example, features reclining seats and advanced safety features like shoulder belts that adjust to allow more movement for reclined occupants.
Looking even further ahead, as autonomous vehicles become the norm, they may eventually have dedicated roadways, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. However, they will still need to contend with unexpected obstacles like animals or fallen trees. The evolution of autonomous vehicles will likely lead to new safety standards and innovations in vehicle design.
As we progress towards a future dominated by autonomous vehicles, MotorTrend remains committed to keeping you informed about the latest developments and advancements in this exciting field.
