Volkswagen, the German automaker debuted a new “Temporary Autopilot” (TAP) program that can control a car semi-automatically at speeds up to 80 mph. It combines existing driver-assist functions found in many cars nowadays, like adaptive cruise control and side monitoring for safer lane-changing, with a radar system, laser scanner and ultrasonic sensors.
When in TAP mode, the car maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, checks the lane markers to keep the car in the center, and automatically slows down when approaching a bend in the road. The goal is to prevent accidents caused by inattentive drivers, according to Volkswagen. The driver still maintains control and can override the car’s actions at any point, however.
Volkswagen is not the only manufacturer which is developing the Autopilot function. Even non car manufacturer company in Silicon Valley, GOOGLE also developing autopilot drive car using their own system which they might integrate with GoogleMap. Let see what another Germany company is doing..
Audi also is having a few set of pilot test using Audi TTS Quattro. As we can see in the video below, it is not a very advance technology. It doesn't require any specific guideline along the roadway. It is the normal road which that technology can understand, in order to provide autopilot drive. Very interesting.
This is just the latest step in a growing trend of cars that can park themselves, drive themselves, communicate with other cars on the road and other smart grid functions. Looks like the state of Nevada, the first to pass regulations governing driverless cars, is on the right track. Nevada is the first state that encouraging this technology to be used as a pilot test at their state. The regulation for the autopilot has been drafted by the Nevada Department of Transport (DOT) and going to be implemented soon!
When can we see one kind of these test being done locally by Proton? Can't wait.. But, I guess this technology development cost is too expensive for our local car manufacturer. As a suggestion, Proton need to collaborate with international University experts if they are willing to explore this kind of features.
0 comments