- Autonomous vehicles are a kind of intelligent car that relies on artificial intelligence, visual computing, radar, monitoring devices and global positioning systems to work together to allow computers to operate the motor vehicle automatically and safely without any active human action.
- Autonomous vehicles have the potential to transform transportation by making it safer, more efficient, and more accessible while also contributing to environmental sustainability and economic growth.
The market of autonomous vehicles is evolving rapidly, driven by technological progress, regulatory developments, industry partnerships, and efforts to enhance consumer trust and acceptance. Back to our daily lives, why do we need self-driving cars, and what are their advantages over regular cars?
What are autonomous vehicles?
Autonomous vehicles (Avs), also known as autonomous cars (AC), driverless cars, computer-driven cars, wheeled mobile robots or robotaxi, are a kind of intelligent car that relies on artificial intelligence, visual computing, radar, monitoring devices and global positioning systems to work together to allow computers to operate the motor vehicle automatically and safely without any active human action.
AVs are a kind of intelligent car that realises driverless driving through a computer system, partially or entirely replacing the human driver in navigating a vehicle from an origin to a destination while avoiding road hazards and responding to traffic conditions.
Also read: The case against ‘smart cars’: Why we’re better off without them
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have been experimented with since at least the 1920s. The first ADAS system was the cruise control system, invented by Ralph Teetor in 1948. The first semi-autonomous vehicle was developed in 1977 by the Mechanical Engineering Laboratory in Tsukuba, Japan. Google Self-driving Cars received the first U.S. self-driving vehicle license in May 2012.
Advantages of autonomous vehicles
The market of autonomous vehicles is evolving rapidly, driven by technological progress, regulatory developments, industry partnerships, and efforts to enhance consumer trust and acceptance. Continued innovation, collaboration, and regulatory clarity will shape the future growth and adoption of autonomous driving technology.
Also read: Intel bids to shape the future of smart vehicles
Autonomous vehicles offer several potential benefits that could significantly impact various aspects of transportation and society.
Safety
One of the primary reasons for developing autonomous vehicles is to improve road safety. Human error is a leading cause of accidents, and autonomous systems, with their ability to constantly monitor surroundings and react quickly, have the potential to reduce the number of accidents caused by human mistakes.
Reduced traffic congestion
Autonomous vehicles can communicate with each other and with traffic infrastructure, optimising routes and reducing congestion. They can also follow each other more closely and maintain consistent speeds, which can lead to smoother traffic flow.
Accessibility
Autonomous vehicles could improve mobility for people with disabilities, the elderly, and those who cannot drive due to various reasons. They can provide a more convenient and accessible transportation option for individuals who may face challenges with traditional driving.
Environmental benefits
Autonomous vehicles have the potential to be more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. They can optimise driving patterns, reduce idling time, and choose the most efficient routes, leading to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions.
Productivity and comfort
With autonomous driving, passengers can use travel time more productively. They can work, relax, or engage in leisure activities during the commute, enhancing overall comfort and productivity.
Urban planning and infrastructure
The deployment of autonomous vehicles can influence urban planning and infrastructure design. Cities may adapt to accommodate these vehicles more efficiently, leading to improved transportation systems and reduced space dedicated to parking.
Enhanced logistics and supply chain
Autonomous vehicles have the potential to revolutionise logistics and supply chain operations. They can improve delivery efficiency, reduce transportation costs, and enable more flexible and responsive supply chain networks.
