Automated driving technology is currently the new wave of innovation in the automotive industry. So which manufacturers are most advanced in this field? Here is a roundup of the latest trends from Japan and overseas.
Introduction of the most advanced manufacturers
Developments in Automated Driving Technology Around the World
Automated driving technology has the potential to revolutionize not only the automotive industry, but society as a whole. In recent years, research and development has been progressing in countries around the world, and efforts toward practical applications are accelerating. In particular, the United States, Europe, and Japan are in fierce competition to lead the world in the development of automated driving technology.
U.S.A.: Google, Tesla
In the U.S., IT companies such as Google and Tesla are actively developing self-driving cars by developing their own technologies. Tesla is driving the diffusion of self-driving technology by introducing self-driving functions to electric vehicles.
Europe: BMW, Mercedes Benz, Renault, Peugeot
In Europe, German, French, and other automakers are combining traditional technical capabilities with innovation to develop automated driving technologies. German automakers BMW and Daimler are actively investing in the development of self-driving technology and incorporating these advanced technologies in their luxury vehicles. French automakers Renault and Peugeot are incorporating this technology in their small cars and SUVs in an effort to promote the technology to a wider audience.
Japan: Toyota, Nissan, Honda
In Japan, automakers such as Toyota, Nissan, and Honda are focusing on the development of automated driving technology. Toyota has laid the foundation for automated driving technology with the development of its ToyotaSafetySense safe driving support system. Nissan has launched a car equipped with its "ProPILOT" automated driving technology and is working toward its practical application. Honda has developed the automatic driving technology "HondaSensing" and is enhancing the functions of its safe driving support system.
Thus, the development of automated driving technology is progressing around the world, and efforts toward its practical application are accelerating. Automated driving technology has the potential to have a significant impact on society by reducing traffic accidents, eliminating traffic congestion, and liberalizing mobility. Much attention is being paid to the future development of this technology.
Comparison of Japanese and Foreign Technology
A comparison of Japanese and foreign automated driving technologies reveals several characteristics. First, Japanese automated driving technology is characterized by the fact that it is being developed with an emphasis on safety. Japanese automakers are developing automated driving technologies based on the technologies for safe driving support systems that they have cultivated over many years. As a result, Japanese automated driving technology is highly regarded as a highly safe system.
Foreign companies emphasizing innovation and technological capabilities
On the other hand, overseas self-driving technologies tend to be developed with an emphasis on innovation and technological capabilities. In particular, U.S. IT companies are developing automated driving technologies by making full use of the latest technologies, such as artificial intelligence and sensor technology. As a result, overseas self-driving technologies are characterized by advanced functions and performance.
Japanese Manufacturers Focusing on Social Acceptability
Another feature of Japan's automated driving technology is that its development is focused on social acceptability. Japanese automakers carefully consider how the introduction of automated driving technology will affect society. As a result, Japanese automated driving technology is highly regarded as a system that emphasizes harmony with society.
Thus, both Japanese and foreign automated driving technologies have their own unique characteristics. It is expected that technologies from both countries will be fused together to develop safer and more advanced automated driving technologies in the future.
Benchmarks for Automated Driving Technology
Although automated driving technology is being developed all over the world, a common standard, or benchmark, for evaluating its level and performance has not yet been established. Because automated driving technology is realized through a complex combination of various elemental technologies, such as sensor technology, artificial intelligence, software, and hardware, there are aspects that are difficult to evaluate. However, objective evaluation criteria are essential for the development of automated driving technology. For this reason, various efforts have been made in recent years to evaluate the performance of automated driving technologies.
For example, the Society of Automotive Engineers of America (SAEInternational) has developed criteria that classify five levels of automated driving technology. These standards are an important indicator for understanding the development status of automated driving technology. Test courses are also being constructed around the world to evaluate the performance of automated driving technologies. These test courses can reproduce various driving conditions and evaluate the performance of automated vehicles.
The development of automated driving technology has only just begun. It is expected that more objective evaluation criteria will be established in the future, accelerating the development of automated driving technology.
Initiatives by Leading Japanese Manufacturers
Toyota's Latest Technology: Pursuit of Safety and Reliability
Toyota is one of the world's best-selling automakers and a world leader in the development of automated driving technology. Toyota has laid the foundation for automated driving technology with the development of its ToyotaSafety Sense safe driving assist system.
Toyota SafetySense uses sensors such as laser radar and cameras to recognize surrounding conditions and provide functions such as collision avoidance and lane departure prevention. This system is already installed in many Toyota vehicles and contributes to safe driving.
Toyota is further advancing ToyotaSafetySense and developing automated driving technology. In the future, Toyota aims to realize automated driving on highways and in urban areas.
Safety is Toyota's top priority in the development of automated driving technology. Toyota has stated that it will continue to develop automated driving technology until it is safe to use.
Nissan's Automated Driving Challenge: Innovative ProPILOT Evolution
Nissan has launched a car equipped with the ProPILOT automated driving technology and is working toward its practical application.
ProPILOT is a system that provides automated driving functions on highways. The system uses cameras, radar, and other sensors to recognize surrounding conditions and provide functions such as lane keeping and distance control, etc. ProPILOT is recognized as a system that reduces the burden on the driver and contributes to safe driving.
Nissan aims to further evolve ProPILOT to achieve more advanced automated driving. In the future, Nissan aims to realize automated driving in urban areas and during traffic jams.
Nissan places great importance on social acceptability in the development of automated driving technology. To ensure that automated driving technology is accepted by society, Nissan actively disseminates information and promotes dialogue with society.
Honda's technological innovation: Creating next-generation mobility
Honda has developed HondaSensing, an automated driving technology, to enhance the capabilities of its safe driving support system.
HondaSensing uses cameras, radar, and other sensors to recognize surrounding conditions and provide functions such as collision avoidance and lane departure prevention. HondaSensing is already installed in many Honda vehicles and contributes to safe driving.
Honda is also working to further evolve HondaSensing to achieve more advanced automated driving. In the future, Honda aims to realize automated driving on highways and in urban areas.
Honda's emphasis on technological innovation is reflected in its aggressive investment in the development of automated driving technology.
Latest Trends toward the Realization of Automated Driving Level 3 to 5
Level 3 Practical Application Status
World's first Level 3 self-driving car by Honda
A major turning point in the history of automated driving technology was the launch of the world's first Level 3 self-driving car by Honda in March 2021. The "Traffic Jam Pilot" feature in the Legend was a breakthrough that allowed drivers to take their hands off the wheel and free themselves from the need to check their surroundings during traffic jams on highways.
Mercedes Benz shines in the luxury car market
In the luxury car market, Mercedes-Benz is attracting a lot of attention. The company plans to be recertified by the German Federal Motor Vehicle Authority for its Level 3 system, DRIVE PILOT, by the end of 2024; starting in early 2025, the company will begin offering a new version that will allow automated driving at speeds of up to 95 km/h. Notably, owners of existing DRIVE PILOT-equipped vehicles will receive this upgrade free of charge.
Germany and Japan Lead the World in Laws and Regulations
In terms of legislation, Germany and Japan in particular lead the world. In 2021, Germany became the first country in the world to legislate the use of Level 4 automated vehicles on public roads, providing a strong push for the practical application of automated driving technology. Japan is also steadily improving its legislation by enacting a revised Road Traffic Law for Level 4 in 2023. These efforts by both countries are an important driving force to accelerate the practical application of automated driving technology.
Challenges to Level 4 and 5 realization
Automated driving technology is entering a new phase of innovation in 2024. Of particular note are the dramatic advances in AI and sensor technology.
Evolution of sensor technology and AI processing power
The latest LiDAR sensors have a detection range of over 300 meters, and when combined with high-resolution camera systems, are becoming more stable in all weather conditions. In particular, the advent of 4D imaging radar is enabling highly accurate object recognition even in adverse weather conditions.
Acceleration of urban infrastructure development
The development of 5G communication networks has enabled high-speed communication between vehicles and infrastructure, making it possible to share traffic information in real time. Of particular note is the practical application of V2I (road-to-vehicle communication) technology, which enables safer driving through direct communication with traffic signals and road signs.
Social Acceptability and Legal Development
Japan and Germany are leading the world in the development of legislation, and Germany in particular has legislated the world's first Level 4 self-driving cars on public roads in 2021. Japan will also enact a revised Road Traffic Law for Level 4 in 2023, and the path to commercialization is clear.
With these developments, we are making steady progress toward the practical application of fully automated driving after 2025. In particular, its introduction in the logistics sector and public transportation is expected to lead the way, transforming our lives into a more convenient and safer one.
Development of next-generation driver assistance services
Possibility of new mobility services
Robot cab in the spotlight
The evolution of self-driving technology is bringing revolutionary changes to our means of transportation. Robo-taxi services are attracting particular attention. In the United States, Cruise and Waymo have launched commercial unmanned cab services, operating 24 hours a day in San Francisco and Phoenix. Demonstration tests in limited areas are planned in Japan by 2025.
Practical Application of Automated Delivery
In the area of automated delivery, practical applications have already begun. China's Meituan has developed a meal delivery service using unmanned delivery vehicles in Beijing, making more than 10,000 deliveries per day. In Japan, Yamato Transport is also conducting demonstration tests of robot delivery, and hopes are high for more efficient delivery in depopulated areas.
Evolution of Mobility Sharing with AI
In the new mobility sharing, vehicle allocation optimization in conjunction with demand forecasting by AI is becoming a reality. From traditional fixed-point sharing, we are evolving to "smart sharing," where AI predicts user demand and places vehicles in optimal locations.
Development of related services
Remote control by smartphone
The development of automated driving technology has also brought innovations to a variety of related services, such as parking and emergency response. In the latest valet parking system, the vehicle automatically finds a parking space and completes parking by remote control via smartphone. This system enables stress-free parking in crowded commercial facilities.
Support by AI and high-speed communication network
With the development of the 5G communication network, remote operation services are entering the practical stage. Specialized operators can remotely operate vehicles as needed to quickly respond to system malfunctions and unexpected situations. This service is being used particularly in the logistics field. In addition, the AI-linked emergency support system detects changes in the driver's physical condition and automatically stops the vehicle at a safe location and, if necessary, links up with emergency services. This is attracting attention as a new option to support the safe mobility of elderly drivers.
These services are evolving from mere driver assistance to more comprehensive mobility solutions that are expected to transform our lives into safer and more comfortable ones.
Latest Trends of Overseas Manufacturers
Tesla's technological features: AI and Big Data Revolution
teslais innovating self-driving technology with a unique approach that leverages the world's largest collection of real-world driving data. According to the company, as of the end of 2023, it will have collected more than 1 billion miles of driving data per month from vehicles worldwide, which it uses to train its AI.
The company's automated driving system features a vision-based approach that combines eight high-resolution cameras and a proprietary AI chip called the FSD Computer. over the air (OTA) updates regularly upgrade the functionality of existing vehicles.
German Manufacturers' Strategies: The Challenge of Fully Automated Driving in Luxury Cars
Mercedes-Benzis scheduled to launch a new version of its DRIVE PILOT system by the end of 2024, which will enable automated driving on highways at speeds of up to 95 km/h. BMW is also working to commercialize Level 3 automated driving in its next-generation 7 Series, accelerating competition in the luxury car market.
Of note is the German manufacturer's thorough approach to safety. Mercedes-Benz systems are highly reliable thanks to a multi-sensor fusion that combines LiDAR, radar, and cameras.
Other startups: disruptive innovations from Silicon Valley
Waymois fully deploying a completely unmanned vehicle dispatch service in San Francisco and Phoenix beginning in late 2023. According to the company, Phoenix has achieved several thousand dispatches per day and a low accident rate compared to human drivers.
Cruiseis working with GM to prepare for mass production of Origin, a specially designed self-driving car. It is attracting attention for its new design and functionality that overturns conventional automobile concepts.
In the Chinese market,BaiduThe Apollo platform, developed by Apollo, Inc. is rapidly gaining traction. According to the company's announcement, as of the end of 2023, unmanned cab services will be deployed in more than 10 major cities, steadily accumulating a track record.
According to an analysis by the Boston Consulting Group,Automated Mobility Services Market to Grow to $700 Billion by 2030The market is expected to grow by 2025. These startups are taking an innovative approach to this growing market that goes beyond the conventional wisdom of the automotive industry.
The Future and Challenges of Automated Driving Technology
Future possibilities brought about by technology
Automated driving technology has the potential to have a significant impact on society by reducing traffic accidents, eliminating traffic congestion, and freeing up mobility. Automated driving technology is expected to significantly reduce traffic accidents. Self-driving cars are,Avoid accidents caused by human misjudgmentThis allows for a safer transportation system.
Also, by automated driving technology,Traffic jams dissipatedIt is also possible that they will be Self-driving vehicles can smooth the flow of traffic by allowing them to travel along optimal routes.
In addition, self-driving technology could lead to greater freedom of movement. Self-driving cars are,Provides a means of transportation for the elderly, disabled, and others who have traditionally had difficulty drivingThe Automated Driving Technology Automated driving technology has the potential to bring about major changes in society. Much attention is being paid to the future development of the technology.
Key Challenges to Dissemination
There are several challenges to the widespread adoption of automated driving technology. First,Safety IssuesThere are Automated driving technology is still under development, and ensuring safety is an issue. Further technological development is needed so that automated vehicles can respond to all kinds of situations. Also,Legal IssuesThere are also The spread of automated driving technology requires the development of laws. The legal framework needs to be clarified, including the responsibilities of automated vehicles and how to respond in the event of an accident. Furthermore,Social Acceptability IssuesThere are also Since automated driving technology has a significant impact on society, it requires society's understanding and acceptance. The merits and demerits of automated driving technology need to be discussed and better understood by society as a whole. These issues need to be overcome for the widespread use of automated driving technology.
Safety and Legal Aspects
The safety of automated driving technology is one of the biggest challenges to its widespread adoption. While automated vehicles can avoid accidents caused by human errors of judgment, they also pose new risks.
For example, there may be cases where the automated driving system is unable to make appropriate decisions, such as driving in bad weather, at night, or during other times of poor visibility; unpredictable pedestrian or bicycle behavior; or responding to unexpected situations, such as road subsidence or construction. There is also concern about the risk of accidents due to hacking of automated driving systems or cyber attacks. One aspect of automated driving systems is that they are connected to a network, making them vulnerable to external attacks.
In order to mitigate these risks, a multifaceted approach is needed, including the development of automated driving systems as well as the strengthening of safety measures, the establishment of legal regulations, and a change in the awareness of society as a whole.
Liability for automated vehicles is another important legal issue. Clear rules are needed to determine who is responsible in the event of an accident involving an automated vehicle. It is also necessary to establish a new insurance system for self-driving cars. It is essential that safety and legal aspects be firmly established for the widespread use of automated driving technology.
Summary: Latest Automated Driving Technology Ranking 2024
The Future of Technological Evolution and Its Impact
Automated driving technology has developed rapidly in recent years and has the potential to have a significant impact on society. While automated driving technology brings various benefits, such as reduction of traffic accidents, elimination of traffic congestion, and liberalization of mobility, there are also numerous issues to be overcome, including safety, legal aspects, and social acceptance. Future technological developments are expected to make automated driving technology safer and more reliable. In addition, legal developments and changes in society's awareness as a whole are expected to make automated driving technology more acceptable to society. Automated driving technology has the potential to bring about major changes not only in the automotive industry but also in society as a whole. Much attention is being paid to the future development of the technology.
Impact on the overall market
The spread of automated driving technology could have a significant impact not only on the automotive industry, but also on various other industries. For example, in the transportation industry, such as cabs and buses, the introduction of self-driving vehicles is expected to reduce labor costs and improve service. In the logistics industry, the introduction of self-driving trucks is expected to improve delivery efficiency and reduce labor shortages. Furthermore, the introduction of self-driving vehicles could have a significant impact on related industries, such as the automotive parts industry and the software development industry. The widespread use of automated driving technology could also create new markets. Automated driving technology has the potential to bring about major changes to society as a whole. Future technological developments are expected to have a significant impact on various industries.
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