Tag Archives: autonomous

Autonomous Driving

Self-Driving Cars Explained: Are We There Yet?

Waymo, an autonomous automotive service, permits commuters to get round three main metropolitan areas with out human intervention. Cruise is another driverless ride service that was working in San Francisco however has quickly paused operations to give attention to enhancements. These two corporations provide a stage 4 autonomous automotive, which is probably the most superior instance of the expertise that most people can presently entry.

But it isn’t solely robotaxis which can be integrating autonomous tech. Several automakers provide superior driver assist programs, together with a spread of help options. For instance, Honda’s Sensing expertise consists of Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping, and extra. 

Some of those options alert the driving force, whereas different extra superior programs will take autonomous motion if wanted. More complicated autonomous help is on the market with collision avoidance expertise, which detects an imminent crash and applies emergency braking if the driving force does not react. 

There are much more spectacular self-driving choices, just like the General Motors Super Cruise system, which has the automotive to do a lot of the work. A Cadillac with Super Cruise can keep its place within the lane, maintain a protected distance from different automobiles, and steer independently with out driver enter. 

However, Super Cruise will not work accurately if there may be highway development; not all roads are suitable, and GM warns towards utilizing it throughout hostile climate, amongst different limitations. Plus, GM and different automakers with related expertise, such because the Autopilot from Tesla, require drivers to oversee the automotive throughout autonomous operation. 

Motorsport

The Ford F-150 Is Now A Testbed For Army Autonomous Driving Tech

Because of serious technological and authorized challenges, absolutely autonomous autos are nonetheless years away for shoppers. Those similar issues do not have an effect on the army operating self-driving vehicles off-road, although. Kodiak Robotics is showcasing the corporate’s first autonomous army prototype platform that lets a Ford F-150 navigate and not using a human behind the wheel.

Kodiak delivered its first autonomous F-150 to the military in November as a testbed for future improvements. The US Army is evaluating the tech for reconnaissance, surveillance, and high-risk missions. The subsequent step is implementing the system on the purpose-built autos that the armed forces use.


News

Everything You Need To Know About Mercedes-Benz’s Hands-free Driving

Mercedes-Benz has become the first automaker certified for SAE Level 3 hands-free driving in the United States. This certification allows drivers to use Mercedes’ Drive Pilot system, which offers a Level 3 of Autonomous Driving. This means that drivers can technically text, watch videos, and interact with passengers without having to watch the road or keep their hands on the steering wheel. The Drive Pilot system is more sophisticated and offers more freedom compared to other ADAS options like the Tesla Autopilot. However, it still comes with regulations and limitations. Let’s explore the details of Mercedes-Benz’s hands-free driving technology.

Understanding The Subtle Differences

Mercedes’ Drive Pilot feature allows drivers to completely disengage while the car drives itself. Unlike Level 2 autonomous driving, which requires the driver to remain physically involved, the Drive Pilot enables drivers to let the car drive without any physical input. The system operates at up to 40mph on certain sections of the highway, following traffic signs and maneuvering around other vehicles as necessary. If the driver fails to take control of the vehicle after multiple warnings, the vehicle will stop, engage hazard lights, call emergency services, and unlock the doors for first responders.

It’s Like An Overprotective Parent, But For Your Car

The Drive Pilot system employs cautionary methods to ensure safety. The system gradually alerts the driver through various signals and vibrations as a warning to regain control of the vehicle. To enhance safety, Mercedes equipped the Drive Pilot system with a variety of technology and accessories including lidar, radars, cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and a positioning system. To warn other drivers and pedestrians, Mercedes initially wanted to use a turquoise color on the exterior of the vehicle when autonomous mode is activated, but U.S. regulations limit the use of colors to white, amber, and red on passenger vehicles.

It Comes With A Fair Share Of Twists, Nuances, And Limitations

Despite being a milestone in autonomous driving, the Drive Pilot system still has limitations and regulations. It can only be activated on mapped highways, in daylight, and when traffic is below 40 mph. It does not engage on city or country roads, construction zones, during heavy rain or fog, on flooded roads, or under any weather conditions that may affect its performance. Mercedes is working to expand the system’s capabilities to operate in more conditions and at higher speeds. Currently, the Drive Pilot system is available on the Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan and Mercedes S-Class models, starting at $104,400 and $114,500 respectively. The system requires a $2,500 annual subscription fee payable through dealerships in Nevada and California.

Concept Cars, Electric Vehicles, News

Nissan Hyper Force: A Bold Electric GT-R Concept with High Stakes in EV Market

The Nissan Hyper Force offers a thrilling GT experience with features like autonomous driving and advanced sensors like “hyper LIDAR” for sportier driving. To enhance the overall experience, users can also make use of a mixed reality simulator that combines augmented reality and virtual reality through a customized helmet.

However, it remains to be seen how this concept fits into Nissan’s production plans. Makoto Uchida, the president and CEO of Nissan, stated that they are keen on receiving feedback on the Hyper Force concept, as it will help shape their future EV offerings. Uchida expressed his desire for customers and society to show their interest in Nissan’s vision.

Nissan Hyper ForceChris Davies/SlashGear

While this doesn’t necessarily mean that a Hyper Force-inspired electric GT-R will replace the current gas-powered GT-R, it does indicate a shift towards focusing on both fun-to-drive features and zero-emissions technology. Automakers are striving to strike a balance that appeals to both enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers.

Featured

TiHAN IIT Hyderabad Deploys Driverless Electric Shuttles On Campus


These shuttles were developed from scratch as part of the autonomous mobility research conducted by the TiHAN (Technology innovation Hub on Autonomous Navigation) centre

IIT Hyderabad Autonomous Driving Shuttle

Driverless cars have become a popular topic since Tesla introduced the hands-free driving capabilities of its electric cars in the USA. Many global brands are also working on developing their own autonomous driving technologies. In India, various carmakers and tech start-ups are working towards the same goal.

Also Read: Kia Will Make Global Quality EVs In India, To Also Set Up EV-exclusive Stores Here

Among them is IIT Hyderabad, where the university’s TiHAN centre has developed driverless electric shuttles. These shuttles utilize LiDAR-based navigation and are equipped with GPS, which can be used to summon them through a mobile app. Currently, these shuttles are being used within the campus by students and faculty members for transportation. In the future, they will also serve as a source of data collection for driverless cars.

Leading The Research Into Driverless Possibilities

IIT Hyderabad TiHAN Centre

TiHAN IIT Hyderabad is one of the leading centres for developing autonomous mobility tech in the country. It has a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with NATRAX (National Automotive Test Tracks) to collaborate on autonomous navigation testing facilities and related upskilling of human resources.

Why Is Autonomous Driving Technology Important?

IIT Hyderabad Autonomous Driving Shuttle

There are two main reasons for developing driverless technology: convenience and improved safety. Let’s discuss the convenience aspect first. Commuting is a major task in urban life, made even more tiresome by traffic congestion. Autonomous driving capabilities will free people from this chore, making commuting more productive and relaxing. It will also reduce dependency for individuals who cannot drive, such as children or elderly family members.

The second reason is safety. Driverless cars are expected to help reduce accidents. These cars will utilize driver assistance features like ADAS, which have already proven helpful in accident prevention. With more driverless cars on the roads, improved communication and coordinated driving can be achieved, resulting in a significant impact on safety and a decrease in the number of incidents, once the technology is fully developed.

IIT Hyderabad Autonomous Driving Shuttle

Autonomous driving technology faces unique challenges on Indian roadways, but we are already witnessing some benefits. More mass-market cars now come equipped with ADAS to enhance safety and convenience on expressways. While autonomous tech may not completely replace traditional driving, it is only a matter of time before its implementation for the overall benefit of all stakeholders in relevant use cases. To achieve this, the real-world data collected by various brands and research centers over time will be instrumental in effective implementation.

News

Clarity on autonomous vehicle laws needed ‘urgently’

A group of Members of Parliament (MPs) is calling on the government to urgently pass comprehensive laws for autonomous vehicles in order to prevent the UK from falling behind other countries. The cross-party Transport Committee believes that the current laws for self-driving vehicles are outdated and restrictive.

Fully automated driving systems are currently prohibited in the UK. Initially, they were expected to be allowed by 2021, but this deadline has been pushed back to 2022, and now possibly 2025.

The Transport Committee has recommended that legislation address safety, security, liability, as well as infrastructure and the use of personal data.

Iain Stewart, the Chair of the Transport Committee, stated, “Self-driving vehicles are a promising British success story, and we have a competitive advantage over many other countries. However, if the government fails to introduce a transport bill before the next general election, all of our hard work could be at risk.”

Stewart further explains, “There are various obstacles to the widespread adoption of self-driving vehicles, including public confidence in their safety and security, as well as the potential impact on other road users. To achieve the government’s goals for self-driving vehicle deployment, we must address these complex issues. We believe in taking a cautious and gradual approach, initially introducing SDV technologies in well-defined contexts to avoid unintended consequences.”

Recommendations

The MPs have raised concerns about the government’s proposed “safety ambition”, which states that self-driving vehicles should achieve a safety level equivalent to that of a competent human driver. They believe this ambition is too weak and vague.

The committee also suggests that the government should outline a strategy for the future of human driving in a world of self-driving vehicles. This strategy should include potential changes to driving tests and ensure that all drivers have a full understanding of self-driving technology.

News, Technology

Waymo Shifts Focus from Autonomous Trucks to Self-Driving Taxis

Waymo, known for its advancements in autonomous driving technology, had been working on developing autonomous trucks to transform the trucking industry. The company had partnered with Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) in 2020 to equip the Freightliner Cascadia truck with Level 4 autonomy. However, Waymo recently announced that it will be pausing its commercial and operational efforts on trucking and most of its technical development to prioritize its self-driving taxi service, Waymo Driver.

Waymo believes that by focusing on establishing Waymo Driver as a successful mainstream enterprise, it will be better equipped to tackle the challenges of autonomous trucking. The company states that advancing Waymo Driver capabilities, especially on freeways, will directly benefit the development of autonomous trucks.

Additionally, Waymo Driver will serve as a testing ground for government regulations surrounding self-driving vehicles on public roads. Insights gained from Waymo Driver vehicles will help future autonomous trucks navigate the complex regulatory landscape. Waymo emphasizes that it still sees a significant commercial opportunity for its trucking solution, alongside other applications of the Waymo Driver. Self-driving taxis are not replacing autonomous trucks but rather facilitating their eventual deployment, albeit with a slightly longer timeline.