Autonomous Car
An autonomous car, also known as a self-driving car or driverless car, is a vehicle equipped with advanced sensors, actuators, and artificial intelligence systems that enable it to navigate and drive without human intervention. These cars use a combination of technologies such as radar, lidar, GPS, odometry, and computer vision to perceive their surroundings.
AI algorithms process the sensory information to identify appropriate navigation paths, as well as obstacles and relevant signage. Autonomous cars are classified into levels based on their degree of autonomy, from Level 0 (no automation) to Level 5 (full automation), where the vehicle can operate under all conditions without any human intervention.
The development of autonomous vehicles aims to reduce human errors that lead to accidents, increase transportation efficiency, and improve mobility for those unable to drive.
Many companies and research institutions are actively developing autonomous car technologies, with some vehicles already capable of high levels of autonomy in controlled environments or specific areas known as geofenced locations. For instance, autonomous taxis in specific urban areas provide an example of how these vehicles can be integrated into public transportation systems. These taxis can navigate city streets, recognize traffic signals, and safely transport passengers to their destinations without a human driver.
Another application is in long-haul trucking, where autonomous trucks can drive for extended periods on highways, potentially increasing efficiency and reducing the need for rest stops. These trucks use AI to maintain safe distances from other vehicles, stay in their lanes, and even change lanes or take exits as needed, all while constantly monitoring their surroundings for unexpected obstacles or changes in driving conditions.