Tesla, Ford, Audi, the list goes on. Nearly every major auto manufacturer (and several major non-auto technology companies) have announced plans for autonomous consumer vehicles within the next few years. One startling thing about these announcements is the nearly universal optimistic introduction date of 2020 for fully self-driving vehicles.
As has been the case with other firms rolling out autonomous capabilities, Renault-Nissan Alliance will introduce the technology gradually. This year, Renault Nissan will offer a traffic jam assistant that will allow a car to drive autonomously and safely in heavy, stop-and-go traffic.
Joining the crowd, Renault-Nissan has confirmed plans to introduce at least ten consumer model self-driving cars by the end of 2020. Although the Infinity line is mentioned as one of the new auton models, the company has also stressed the importance of providing affordable cars to the general public. Safety is stressed as a major impetus for developing auton technology, as nearly 90 percent of automotive fatalities are due to driver error.
Over the next 12 months, Renault-Nissan plans to introduce several semi-autonomous features to assist drivers in heavy city traffic, Highway speed driver assistance, with lane changing ability, is expected within 2 years. Fully autonomous vehicles are scheduled for introduction by the end of the decade.
Photo: Nissan Leaf Electric Auto.