Is A Self Driven Car In Your Future?
Back to the future may be 30 years old this year, but were the predictions in the movie close to reality? Well, yes and no. In 2014 automakers and auto parts supplies suppliers have introduced their advanced technology for cars of the future that will actually drive hands free!
Are you ready for this new chapter in automotive experiences? Let’s discuss what makes these cars tick? Or should I say take the wheel. Audi presented its “Next Chapter” from January 6 through January 9. Audi’s presentation is set to fittingly highlight piloted driving.
On Monday, January 5, 2015, Audi began its first road trip Silicon Valley, California to Las Vega, Nevada, with journalists behind the wheel of this so called “piloted “car with its automated systems. Audi wanted to demonstrate their leadership role in piloted cars.
Audi’s model A7 completely piloted driving car is not only capable of driving itself from zero to 70 mph but it can also change lanes and pass other vehicles. Audi states that the technology used on the concept are “close to production ready”. So what type of technology is installed to handle all these hands free twists, turns and lane changes?
Installed on the vehicle is everything from long-and mid-range radar sensors to a high-resolution 3D video camera, and laser scanners, to achieve a complete view of the vehicle’s surroundings in order to make sound decisions.
As the car reaches urban environments, it displays a warning signal to notify the driver to take control. The driver-free concept is simple enough, but the tech is cutting edge. These cars talk to other cars and the surrounding terrain with sensors, and also stay in touch with centralized command posts. Intersections will bristle with cameras, radar and sensors to control traffic flow and prevent collisions. Traffic lights will become a quaint memory.
The debate is not over on whether we are really ready for cars to drive themselves, but automotive technology is gaining ground. These cars are not on the market yet, but the momentum is building. Why you ask? Because technology is moving fast paving a clear path to a lucrative new market. Plus kids today do not seem to be all that keen on driving anyway.
The prediction is that by 2040 the traffic stream in America and the world would be 75% of self-driven vehicles according to the IEEE, (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers). Let’s think about the cars on the market today. You are using and accepting many components that are already heading you in this direction, such as built-in GPS systems backup Cameras, collision avoidance sensors, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings and more. Conditioning is already underway. The question is not whether or not self driving cars will exist, but when. The race is on to see which country will be the first to introduce it.
Another good question is what your car insurance will cost if you own a self piloting automobile. I doubt my classic vehicles would be receptive to such big alterations.
As for me, I think I will stay with the old tradition, after all, where I am the driver. I doubt my classic vehicles would be receptive to such big alterations.
Photo reference: http://www.nydailynews.com/
